The Spirit of Waxahachie Indian band has been working since Aug. 1 in preparation for their UIL state show “Building Paris”. 

The show focuses on a time in France during the Industrial Revolution when French workers were building the Eiffel Tower.

“When I heard the show was called ‘Building Paris,’ the first thing I thought of was the foreign concept,” senior Manuel Rocha said. “When I heard the music, it did have an exotic feel.” 

The band is led by three drum majors: seniors Leah Gonzalez and Brianna Padron and junior Owen Bartosh.

“‘Building Paris’ showcases the elegance and class that people associate not only with the French city but also with our band program,” Padron said. “The year the band has put in a new set of procedures to increase competitiveness.”

The flags depict pieces of the Eiffel tower. 

“I feel like this year’s color guard is coming together quickly,” sophomore Lexi Piper said. “I’m excited to see the end result.”

Band director Rich Armstrong, who has led the band for 21 years and to 11 state trips, looks at “Building Paris” as a metaphor for the Spirit of Waxahachie Indian Band. 

“‘Building Paris” is equivalent to building back a solid band program, returning to structure and success,” Armstrong said. “The music is amazing.”

The state marching contest takes place in San Antonio November 8-9.