WMHS Marching Band to compete this week

The West Milford Highlander Marching Band has long been known for its tradition of excellence and innovation, standing out among all other area bands as the “one with the bagpipers.”

This year’s Band will not only be recalled for its blend of classical and modern day music with intricate and rigorous marching routines, but as being the “show with the skater.”

Yes – the marching band with an Olympic hopeful figure skater.

The 2019 Field Show, themed “Wintery Mix,” features Maliah Utley, a 15-year-old West Milford resident who is seeking Olympic Gold and competes nationally.

Skating on a platform topped with synthetic ice, Utley glides, spins and dances to the Band’s musical performance, which includes selections from the classic “Carol of the Bells,” “Snow Caps” by Richard Saucedo, “Winter Song” by Sara Barielles and Ingrid Michaelson, “Stormworks, Mvt. 1: Timestorn” by Stephen Melillo, and a special rendition of the iconic “Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice.

The current reigning State and Mid-Atlantic 5A National Champion Highlander Band sought to retain its titles at the State sectional competition on Oct. 30 at Hillsborough High School, and then compete in the Nationals competition on Nov. 2 in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

The Highlander Band will also present its 2019 show at halftime during the West Milford Township High School Football Game tonight in West Milford.

The Band will also perform an indoor version of the field show at its 20th Annual Military Concert and Tattoo on Nov. 9.