High school marching bands from nine states gathered at East Tennessee State University’s Mini Dome for a Bands of America Regional Championship, WCYB reported. The competition featured 24 ensembles, with students traveling from as far away as New York and Georgia.
Travis Tester, contest director for Bands of America, told WCYB the event is one of 24 regional championships the organization hosts, giving students an opportunity to showcase routines they have practiced since the summer. Tester said music brings everyone together and that marching band builds camaraderie regardless of where performers come from.
Kennedy Brumit, a member of the Elizabethton High School color guard, said meeting other performers who share her interests is one of her favorite parts of participating in marching band. Another participant told WCYB that marching band provides a creative outlet, allowing students to express themselves while enjoying the experience.
Tester said the encouragement from families and supporters in the stands helps recognize the time and effort students put into preparing for competition, and that the support feeds into the souls of the young performers who have put in so much work. For the students on the field, the regional championship offered an opportunity to put months of preparation on display while connecting with fellow musicians from across the country.
For more information, visit wcyb.com.