Just before the ‘rock’ bounces up and down the court, it’s filling the ears of eager fans as the Dragon Pep Band (DPB) lays down a rockin’ beat. “We’ve done it every year since I’ve been here”, says Band Director--and occasional musician in DPB--Mr. Shane Jones. Though it’s unclear how long the DPB has been around, it’s well known that their interpretations of classic hits is well worth being a little early to the basketball games. Timeless chart toppers like Hey Baby, Hot Hot Hot, Final Countdown, and many others are often heard from this dynamic group, as well as the traditional Fight Song, which the cheerleaders and dance team perform to. “It gives people an opportunity to see other things going on in the school” says Mr.Jones. It is truly a benefit to have such a creative group of musicians to accompany our athletics.

Not only do we benefit from having these young musicians performing for us, but it is also a great experience for them. Sophomore Jacob Calvert said, “It’s a lot of fun to get out in front of the crowd and play." Students volunteer for the DPB, though all Dragon Band students practice these pieces in class. Generally, all students have to play in front of an audience. Jacob said, “It helps you get used to playing in front of people.” This is a plus for any student musician intending to make thier talents into a career. As a percussionist, Jacob has the important job of keeping tempo. “You play whatever sounds good,” says Jacob.

While picking up some time on stage is all good and fun, it’s what goes on behind stage that remains in these musicians’ memories. Junior Erin Christopher said activities included, “Playing games in the band room between shows...the milk chug.” The Dairy Challenge as it’s commonly known is an event where the challenger attempts to drink a gallon of milk, which according to science is physically impossible. It has become an annual tradition for the DPB shenanigans. “We have a lot of fun, we go out and play before the game and at half time, play games...it’s a lot of fun," said Erin.

The Dragon Pep Band plays at 6 boys varsity basketball games per season, playing before the game and at half time. “We do that many because that’s approximately how many football games we do. We could do more, but the more of those we do, we're actually taking away from the time we have for things that we do for us, like getting ready for contests,” said Mr.Jones. DPB will be playing next at the January 7 basketball game, rockin’ a way till the Dragons play.