While some sports are finishing up their winter seasons, others are just beginning theirs. Color guard and honor band start up this week.

The color guard team, lead by senior captain Breanne Gandolfo and senior co-captain Cathrine Walker is an ensemble of seven women who have devoted their time to spinning flags, throwing sabers and rifles and dancing.

Color guard originated during the Civil War era, when other soldiers would march alongside the drummers carrying the flag (or the colors). These were the first color guards.

While the color guard would usually perform with a marching band during a halftime show, they will be performing at Clovis East for the 25th annual San Joaquin Valley Color Guard and Percussion Review (SJVCGPR) on Jan. 26, showcasing their solo skills. The event starts at 3:30 P.M. but the campus color guard will perform at 6 P.M.

While the color guard will be performing without accompaniment, several members of the marching band will be showcasing their own skills at the annual Fresno Madera County Music Educators Association (FMCMEA) Honor bands event on Jan. 27.

FMCMEA hosts auditions from all over the central valley for students to come and try out for different parts. For instance, there is the Honor Jazz Band (tryouts in February), and the Honor Orchestra, or simply the Honor Band.

Sophomore Chelsea Joy and senior Jason Savage are two such students who have tried out alongside many of their peers for spots in the Honor Band. The difference between them and their fellow students is that they have been accepted into positions for the band.

Joy and Savage are the only two who tried out from a high school level, however, there were several who tried out for the junior high level. Seventh grader Dana King was awarded a spot in the junior high honor band.

FMCMEA?s Honor Band will perform at Reedly High School?s Performing Arts Center, beginning at 7 P.M.