By Dan Geoffrey

Walled Lake Winterguard and Walled Lake Percussion have had another successful round of competition at the State level this past weekend. Both teams competed at Chippewa Valley High School in Saginaw on Saturday, April 6 for Guard and Sunday, April 7 for WLP.

Walled Lake Percussion’s World Line, composed of the most experienced high school percussionists in the Walled Lake district, had its best judged performance yet for this year, with an overall score of 88 out of 100 and a position in first place.

“Volunteering parents really make our show possible for their help with our special effects,” said sophomore and World Line pianist Alexander Walter. But Walter is also sure to give his team mates plenty of credit as well: “Some of the most passionate and determined students are in this group,” he says, “especially the seniors.”

Meanwhile, the A Line, composed of newer and less-experienced percussionists, received the highest score it has ever had in WLP history, with an 87.10 out of 100 and a well-earned position in third place.

“I was nervous, but as soon as the first note hit I felt awesome,” says freshman and A Line marimba-player Jeremy Starks of his first experience at a state competition. “It was just amazing.”

Meanwhile, Open Guard, a team chosen from among the most veteran and skilled color guard members from each of the three Walled Lake high schools, also scored very well and earned first place in their division, the only team of its kind in the state of Michigan. A Guard, featuring newer, less-experienced guard members, placed 10^th.

Both teams will be competing at Nationals this month in Dayton and Cincinnati Ohio. Winterguard will be competing from Wednesday, April 10 until they return home on Sunday, April 14. Walled Lake Percussion will be competing the following week from Wednesday, April 16 until Sunday, April 21.