• Article Photo. The VSMS Marching Band brass section performs Friday night.
    The VSMS Marching Band brass section performs Friday night.
  • Article Photo. This year's show features musical numbers from 'Titanic.
    This year's show features musical numbers from 'Titanic."
  • Article Photo. The band will have competitions throughout October in Cedar Rapids and Ames.
    The band will have competitions throughout October in Cedar Rapids and Ames.
  • Article Photo. Flag corps members accompany the band.
    Flag corps members accompany the band.
  • Article Photo. The band members participate in their group cheer after they warm up before the National Anthem.
    The band members participate in their group cheer after they warm up before the National Anthem.
  • Article Photo. Band Director Karl Smith and the drum majors lead the band in a pre-game practice.
    Band Director Karl Smith and the drum majors lead the band in a pre-game practice.
  • Article Photo. Drum major Wes Lyons leads the band as it plays the National Anthem.
    Drum major Wes Lyons leads the band as it plays the National Anthem.

The VInton-Shellsburg Marching Band gave its first public performance of the 2010-2011 season Friday during halftime of the football game in Vinton.

The band, under the direction of Mr. Karl Smith, seeks to continue its string of Division 1 ratings this year.

This year, the band is performing three numbers from "Titanic." The song performed on Friday is different than many of the band's previous marching routines. This slow, sad number is a tribute to the lost ship that ends with the band forming a shape reminiscent of the Titanic, which perished 98 years ago.

More songs from "Titanic" will be featured in future halftime shows as the band prepares for its competitions in October.