Feature /// Eldon Mustang Marching Band
AN ELDON TRADITION:
Playing for fun and for the Future
Story By: Rod Smith Photography: Wendy Winters
More importantly, this school has helped develop some of the best young men and women around.
While school is certainly for learning, it’s also about growing and gaining a variety of experiences. Eldon is one of the best when it comes to giving students opportunities to get involved in multiple activities. “My key teaching philosophy is that these are KIDS who deserve a chance to try all things and see what they love,” believes Eldon Band Director Ashley Hanks. “If they love multiple activities, I feel like it is my job to help them learn to balance responsibilities between each ac- tivity because ultimately, as an adult, you are constantly multitasking.” Band is often in the middle of the multitasking students at Eldon High School.
And this band is special! Win or lose on a football Friday night at Mustang Memorial Park, you will always be entertained by one of the best bands. From the pre-game concert on the track, to the half- the Eldon High School band makes its presence known. “It’s one of the most fun and rewarding parts of the school year,” says Drum Major Ethan Hanks. “We get to show the whole town what our hard work has gone to, and it has given me memories no other activity could come close to.”
46 /// January 2025
McKenzie Ferguson is another Drum Major in the Eldon band. “I’m so glad I’ve had the privilege to be a part of football Friday nights. week. Our band is like a giant student section of all of my favorite people getting to cheer on our football players.”
One of those players is fellow band member Darren Crabtree. “One of the best experiences a football player can have is to have a big family cheering them on,” Crabtree recounts. “I’ve had that with Darren also felt the love from his band when he was crowned Homecoming King.
The Marching Mustangs also stay busy entertaining on the El- don streets. “Parades are super fun,” said Henry Naught, who has served as band manager the past three years while playing the trombone. “We march in the Homecoming Parade, the Eldon Turkey Festival Parade, and the Eldon Christmas Parade, along with march- ing in competitions throughout the fall.”
Some of the band members also continue to entertain with the
largest roundball venues in mid-Missouri with musical energy. “The experience has been eye-opening,” said Ethan Hanks. “Playing
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