Summer camp prepares middle school musicians for 4th of July parade
Published 1:30 am Wednesday, June 25, 2025
There’s nothing quite like the sound of a marching band stepping down Winslow Way on the Fourth of July, and this summer, local middle schoolers have the chance to be part of that musical moment.
Bainbridge Island middle school students interested in marching band and color guard have an opportunity this summer to learn from the award-winning Bainbridge High School marching band and perform in the community’s Grand Ole 4th of July Parade through the Spartan Cadet Parade Camp.
The program, designed for students in 7th-9th grades, is the only parade camp of its kind in Kitsap County. The week-long intensive combines musical instruction, marching fundamentals, and performance preparation, all leading up to that moment when students march alongside high schoolers in the parade.
“This camp gives students a genuine head start on their marching band or color guard experience,” said marching band coach Doug Treder. “They learn the same techniques and conditioning used by our BHS program while being mentored by our experienced high school students.”
The camp welcomes students with at least two years of musical experience, as well as dancers interested in learning color guard. Over the course of the week, participants will master pep songs, marching drills, and music skills needed for marching performances. For those drawn to the visual artistry of color guard, participants will learn flag twirling and spinning techniques.
The program is led by members of the BHS marching band.
“The parade performance is the highlight for students,” said Treder. “There’s something special about representing your school and community, knowing their families, friends, and neighbors are cheering them on.”
The camp serves as a fundraiser sponsored by the Bainbridge Island Band Boosters, which funds all of the Bainbridge Island School District’s instrumental music expenses at BHS, Woodward Middle School, and Sakai Intermediate School.
Register by June 29 at bainbridgebands.square.site
Nancy Treder is president of the Bainbridge High School Instrumental Music Boosters.
