Well here is an example. As mentioned earlier, this year I made 3 important program decisions:

1) program pep band music for for a small competitive band
2) have the drill written as if no one had ever danced before
3) intentionally compete up 3 classes

End result drastically improved student motivation. The students truly enjoyed the entire process. Seniors telling their parents that this year has been the best year of marching band, Freshman telling their 8th grade friends in MS how much fun band is.

Took this product to huge local contest that "everybody goes to". (community expectation to go) Did our best in marching, our music had been better. Got hammered for those choices. So you do what you have to. The kids feel good about this year, and that is the single biggest award we have had.

My view from the cheap seat.