News : Band Camp: V-S members work on \'Mask\' themed songs

Clint Hill's reflection spreads across his tuba during Band Camp practice on Monday.

The Vinton-Shellsburg Marching Band will attempt to continue its string of earning Division 1 ratings at competitions beginning in September.

But reaching that goal begins in August, with the two-week band camp. Last year, the band had success with its baseball theme. This year, says director Nick Waymire, the theme relates to masks, as the band is preparing music from "Zorro" and "Phantom of the Opera."

During camp this week, the band members have been working with Mr. Waymire on both music and marching. Student section leaders are also working with new members to teach them the basics.

The band will perform songs from its routine during halftime of home football games, which are scheduled for Sept. 4 and 18 and October 9 and 16. The band's competition season begins at Marion, Sept. 26. The band will also perform at Kingston Stadium in Cedar Rapids on Saturday, Oct. 3 and Oct. 10, and again at the Waukee Invitational Oct. 17.

See more photos HERE.