MELROSE — After a strong season opener at Hormel Stadium in Medford, the Melrose High School Marching Band is bringing the excitement home. On Saturday, September 27, the Melrose Marching Band and Color Guard will host their annual Home Show Marching Competition at Fred Green Field in Melrose and the community is invited to join in the celebration.
The evening kicks off at 5 p.m. as 15 outstanding marching bands from across Massachusetts take the field, filling the night with unforgettable music, energy and spirit. Around 6:30 p.m., the hometown crowd will cheer on the Melrose Marching Band as they perform their 2025 show The Ballad of Mel and Rose. The night culminates with the presentation of awards and a featured performance by the Merrimack College Marching Band.
Along with the music, fans can enjoy a full menu of favorites including burgers, hot dogs and sausages, plus the band’s legendary Apple Crisp; an annual tradition that keeps people coming back for more. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students with payment accepted by cash, card or Venmo. Parking is available across the street at the Knoll or along the Fellsway.
The Melrose Marching Band Home Show is more than a competition, it’s a showcase of talent, teamwork and hometown pride. Join the Melrose community for an evening of music, marching and celebration under the lights at Fred Green Field.
The 2025 Melrose Marching Band is led by Band Director Ben Vermilyea, Assistant Director Tim Corvene, Color Guard Director Casey Doherty and Woodwind Specialist and Visual Instructor Mikayla White. This year’s show The Ballad of Mel and Rose: A Swan Love Story honors Melrose’s 175th anniversary with music arranged by Jack Tully. The program features talented Melrose High School soloists and the artistry of the 65-member band and color guard, performing selections from Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, Billie Eilish’s Birds of a Feather and Taylor Swift’s Love Story.
The Home Show on September 27 marks the second stop in a season of statewide competitions, held each Saturday through finals on Sunday, November 2. Beyond the competition field, the band brings spirit and excitement to every Melrose home football game at Fred Green Field, entertaining fans during halftime and in the stands.