Color guards, percussion line win at Novi event

The Walled Lake Percussion and Walled Lake Color Guard ensembles competed at the Novi Michigan Color Guard Circuit earlier this month, which featured 45 winter color guard ensembles from across the state in eight different levels and 18 percussion ensembles in six different levels.

The Walled Lake Percussion World Line, the Walled Lake Central A Guard, and the Walled Lake Central Open Guard each won their levels.

The Walled Lake A Guard performed it’s 2012 program “Fix You,” while the Open Guard performed “Amazing Grace,” a program in memory to one of their own, Nate Pernick, who died in a car accident last year.

“He was one of the most talented kids to come through our program. He had just graduated. This program is a dedication to him; it’s very symbolic and meaningful,” said Mike Novak, director of the color guard. “I attribute a lot of our success to long rehearsal hours and very strong parent support. This all wouldn’t be possible without their support.”

The Percussion World Line earned the highest score of the percussion competition with a 87.75 for its show entitled “Shattered Perspectives,” where ensemble members are trying stuff “that’s never been done before,” according to Percussion Group Director Nick Pourcho. “We’re taking risks, and it’s working well so far. We work hard, and the kids understand that to be one of the best groups in the country they have to work a lot to get to that point.”

“Our World Line Percussion team is currently No. 1 in the state, and we have a really good chance to make some noise at the national level,” said Band Director Dave Rogers. “And both our color guards are No. 1 in the state and they could make noise at nationals, too. I’m proud of how hard the kids are working and grateful for all the support from the schools and parents.”

The State Championships are scheduled for the weekend of March 31 and April 1. Nationals will be held in April in Dayton, Ohio.

The Walled Lake Percussion World Line includes students from all three Walled Lake high schools.