This Saturday, the Sanford community will have an opportunity to experience the talent, dedication, and artistry of the SHS Marching Band as they present their Maine Band Directors Association (MBDA) show, “Shades of Red.”
Directed by SHS Band Director Hailey Francoeur, the show explores passion in its many forms: control, desire, obsession, and, ultimately, transformation. According to Ms. Francoeur, “Shades of Red” traces the way emotion can grow from something contained into something overwhelming before resolving into clarity and strength.
The performance is part of the MBDA marching band circuit, in which schools throughout Maine host shows and invite other bands to perform. The circuit also provides opportunities for collaboration, allowing students from other schools, as well as eighth-grade students who join the SHS Marching Band for a time. In addition to competing in the MBDA circuit, SHS participates in the national USBands circuit and will travel to UMass Amherst later this month for its first USBands show of the season.
For Keaghan Gagnon, an SHS senior and the band’s drum major, Saturday’s performance is the culmination of all of the hard work he and his fellow musicians have put in behind the scenes.
“We’re ready to go out there and put on the best first show.”
A member of the marching band since his freshman year, Keaghan has served as drum major for the past year. He is especially looking forward to seeing his friends from other school bands in Sanford sharing what they have all been working on with the community.
Ms. Francoeur, who has led the SHS band program for the past six years, is equally enthusiastic about her students and the program’s continued growth. Throughout her time in the role, she has seen the program grow and build consistency. “It’s been a really fun journey,” she reflected.
She hopes to see the Sanford community come enjoy “Shades of Red” on Saturday—and encourages everyone to continue supporting the Marching Band throughout the school year.
“Catch us at any Friday night football game,” she added.
Indeed, the opportunities to see the SHS Marching Band in action won’t stop after Saturday. The band will also perform in the Homecoming parade next Friday, perform after the Homecoming game, and participate as a pep band in the stands during the evening.
For more information on Saturday’s show, see the event details below. Hope to see you there!
Event Details
Saturday, September 19, 2026
5:00 - 7:00 pm
Sanford High School Alumni Stadium
Tickets: $5 for students and seniors, $7 for adults ($20 family max)