The Sensations Marching Unit, under the direction of Joanne Gerardi, functions with experienced volunteer instructors who are responsible for weekly instructions in each division. Corp camp and drum circles, led by instructors and professionals in the field, as well as full unit practices, enable members to apply and enhance individual skills and parade marching techniques.
The Sensations Marching Unit is a non-profit organization governed by a full board of directors with offices for president, vice president, secretary, assistant secretary, and treasurer. All commitees, chaired and filled by parent volunteers, report directly to the board of directors.
Unit members have supported the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
through walk-a-thons, fund raisers, and family bowling
events. The organization was selected in recognition of
one member's active challenge with cystic fibrosis.
During the holiday season, members participate in a holiday
carol, sharing the musical sounds of the holiday and spirit
of gift giving with a local order of infirm Franciscan sisters.
The Unit attends parades throughout the local
community, in towns throughout Western Pennsylvania and
in neighboring states. Major invitational parades have
included Majorette Day at Kennywood, West Mifflin, PA; City of Pittsburgh
St. Patrick's Day Parade, Pittsburgh, PA;Pennsylvania Maple Festival,
Meyersdale, PA; and Oglebayfest at Oglebay Park,
Wheeling, WV.
In February 2000 and 2007 members of the Sensations proudly marched down Main Street in Disney World with all of the other Twirlmania 2000 & 2007 competitors. On October 31, 2007, members of the Sensations also performed at the Quicken Arena, Cleveland, Ohio, for a Cleveland Cavaliers NBA pre-game performance. The Sensations Winterguard teams compete annually at the All Chapter Championships held in Wildwood, NJ.
All children in the Sensations Marching unit are recognized for their participation, length of service, showmanship and commitment with trophies and medals at an Awards Banquet. Many of our parents and families are also recognized for their working support. This annual family event is a well-deserved evening of fun and relaxation for all who have marched the miles that make each season a sucess.
Registration is available for children ages 2 1/2 to 23. We have an Open Registration which means, basically, you can register anytime throughout the year, though it is recommended that you register in October for classes beginning in November as our parade season officially ends with the Shaler Area High School Homecoming Parade. The Sensations Marching Unit does not discriminate due to race,color, sex, age, national orgin or disability.
Joanne Gerardi, Director
Sensations Marching Unit
e-mail: smudrumandbaton@comcast.net
412-492-9524
