Sophia S. ’27 Embraces Unique Opportunity with Calvert Hall's Marching Band

Sophia S., a sophomore at Notre Dame Preparatory School, has found a unique way to express her passion for performing arts outside of NDP as one of seven girls in the color guard of Calvert Hall College High School's Competition Marching Band. Sophia and her peers recently celebrated a major milestone, contributing to the program’s fifth national championship at MetLife Stadium on November 2.

 

Sophia’s time with Calvert Hall’s marching band began in eighth grade while attending St. Joseph School in Cockeysville and was inspired by her family's legacy in the program. Her brother, Matthew, a 2022 CHC graduate, participated in two national championship seasons during his time in the band. Her sister, Olivia, an NDP Class of 2024 alumna, also took part in the color guard and was a member of the band’s national championship run in 2019. Watching their performances sparked Sophia’s interest and ignited her own commitment to the program.

 

“I started watching the performances when I was in fourth grade,” Sophia shared. “My dad suggested I try it, and after a year of thinking about it, I finally gave it a shot. I ended up loving it, and now I’m in my third year.” Balancing her dual roles in performing arts, Sophia also plays the bass clarinet in NDP’s Concert Band, where she hones her musical talents. However, it is in the CHC marching band that she experiences the unique thrill of large-scale performances.

 

This year’s performance was “Girl in Red,” a dark take on “Little Red Riding Hood,” with the color guard as the Red Riding Hood character and the band as the Big Bad Wolf. The performance earned the program its fifth USBands Open Class National Championship, defeating ten other schools in their category with a score of 96.90.

 

Sophia reflected on the national championship experience at MetLife Stadium. “Walking through the tunnel onto the field is nerve-wracking but exhilarating. The energy is incredible, even with just a small crowd of family and judges in the stands. Performing on that scale is unforgettable.”

 

Preparations for such competitions are rigorous. Rehearsals begin with weekly practices in late July, escalating to three after-school sessions per week during the fall. Sophia’s dedication to the program is evident in her enthusiasm and commitment. “It’s a huge time commitment, but I genuinely love every minute of it. It’s been amazing to find something I’m so passionate about.”

 

Outside of competitions, she has had the opportunity to take part in several parades, including Baltimore City’s famous St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and perform during halftime at the Turkey Bowl. Sophia also values the camaraderie built among the color guard members, who come from various schools in the area. “We’ve become like a family. Each year brings new members, and we grow closer as a team.”

 

Looking ahead, Sophia is poised to take on a leadership role within the color guard in her junior year. Sophia’s story reflects her drive, talent, and joy in her craft, making her an inspiring example of how young women at Notre Dame Prep embrace diverse opportunities to shine and use their unique gifts and talents to better the world around them.