FDSH will host 14 bands from across the state, including the Algona, Bishop Garrigan and Humboldt marching bands. FDSH will close out the day with its performance at 2:10 p.m.

The Dodgers have been preparing since August for this competition. They’ll play a selection of songs including “September,” “After the Love Has Gone,” “Fantasy” and “In the Stone.”

“I think this is one of our best shows that we’ve had,” said FDSH band director Al Paulson. “The kids are really enjoying it and our kids have really stepped up the last few weeks.”

Paulson said that at the Sept. 24 North Central Iowa Marching Band Clinic, the FDSH band scored 89.

-Messenger file photo
Color guard captain Amelia Rake performs during Fort Dodge’s show of Earth, Wind & Fire, as Dari Cook plays the electric guitar inside Dodger Stadium on Sept. 24 during the North Central Iowa Marching Band Clinic and Competition.

“That’s the highest we’ve scored since I’ve been here,” he said.

“Earth, Wind & Fire” won’t be the only elements the FDSH band brings to the field.

The Bands of America governing body for high school marching band competitions has started to allow props like ramps and platforms on the field and the Dodgers’ show includes a ramp at the front of the field to feature soloists and add a new level to the show.

“The ramp gives a three-dimensional perspective on the drill, which is kind of cool,” Paulson said.

The festival is open to the public. Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for adults over 62 and $3 for K-12 students.

Schedule of performances

9:30 a.m. — Bishop Garrigan Marching Band

9:50 a.m. — Ogden Marching Band

10:05 a.m. — Kuemper Catholic Marching Band

10:25 a.m. — Madrid Marching Band

10:40 a.m. — Aplington-Parkersburg Marching Band

10:55 a.m. — West Marshall-State Center Marching Band

11:10 a.m. — Lake Mills Marching Band

11:25 a.m. — Garner-Hayfield-Ventura Marching Band

12:23 p.m. — Nevada Marching Band

12:40 a.m. — Ballard Marching Band

1 p.m. — Forest City Marching Band

1:15 p.m. — Algona Marching Band

1:30 p.m. — Humboldt Marching Band

1:55 p.m. — Marshalltown Marching Band

2:10 p.m. — Fort Dodge Marching Band