On Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2019, DMAE band director Gary Hollander hosted the 7th annual Bergen Blowout in the Dizzy Gillespie Auditorium. The musical spectacular featured the marching bands of Dwight Morrow, East Ramapo High, John F. Kennedy High, and East Side High. The event is essentially a non-competitive battle of the bands in which four marching bands come together and showcase their talent through musical performances.

“The Bergen Blowout allows our group to see bands they would not normally see and be exposed to the various styles that groups have in their bands,” Dr. Hollander explained.

The crowd came rushing into the auditorium ready for music and the event began with each band showcasing a few modern-day songs with their own special spin. The bands took turns performing and exhibiting three different sections: percussion, flags and dancers, as well as the entire band.

“It was a really fun experience. Everyone was hyping each other up and it felt like one big family,” sophomore Charlene Flores said.

When the event was over, each school was awarded a plaque in honor of their participation. 

“We talked with other bands after the event and even got their social media information to stay in touch with them,” sophomore Herbert Brown said.

The Bergen Blowout’s immense success has led to it being expanded into multiple events. The Monroe Classic, which took place on October 24th, was the first expansion and next year Dr. Hollander will expand it further into a Battle of the Island, which will involve bands from Long Island.