Cover Stories: Avon HS and Pariah
March 16, 2010
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By Angela Capton
Avon HS
With Avon’s first gold medal in Scholastic World class, it’s needless to say that the members, staff, and fans of the guard were prouder than ever after the 2009 season. Kali Lighty and Hannah Belcher, featured on the cover of the 2009 Scholastic World Class DVD, felt it was an experience of a lifetime.
Years of dedication culminated in the ultimate payoff for Lighty and Belcher. Lighty began her color guard career with Avon’s Cadet guard in the seventh grade and has been a member of the World guard for the past two years.
Although there were hardships during the season, the guard’s strong bond helped motivate them to the end. “We got through by just being there for each other,” explained Lighty. “In the end, we don't even remember the bad practices or the day we just didn't have it. We remember the moments when we are on the floor together performing with everything we have.”
Avon’s finals performance at World Championships will undoubtedly be one of the moments the members remember for years to come. Lighty recalled feeling a rush of emotions – fear, excitement, calmness – and pouring everything she had into the performance. “When the show ended,” recalled Lighty, “I stood there staring out thinking to myself, ‘That was it. You did the best you could have and it was amazing.’”
The victorious 2009 season was a great reward for the ensemble. Members look forward to taking what they learned and experienced during the season to continue striving to be their best. However, regardless of results, members cherish the friendship and support they find in each other. Lighty concluded, “I love the guard and I can't imagine my life without them.”
Pariah
Auditioning for an independent ensemble can be an intimidating experience, especially if it’s your first time outside your high school’s music program. However, taking the risk pays off. Austin Wehunt, featured on the cover of the 2009 Percussion Open Class Championship DVD, first earned a spot in Pariah’s 2008 ensemble after graduating from high school. The following year, he and the ensemble went on to win first place at the 2009 Percussion Independent Open Championships.
Wehunt became involved in percussion during middle school after a local high school’s recruitment program paid a visit. Wehunt has been drumming ever since and plans to return to Pariah for the 2010 season.
As a pre-denistry major in college, Wehunt understands hard work and discipline. He was proud of Pariah’s Championship performance because everyone maintained their focus and was able to apply everything they’d learned throughout the season.
However, Wehunt’s thirst for perfection wasn’t quenched in 2009; he has high hopes and even more drive for the year to come. “I hope to be twice as strong next year,” projected Wehunt, “to play well as an ensemble, and to walk away with another gold medal.”
