Kelly Walsh High School’s marching band won first place at the State Marching Band Festival, according to Oil City News. The victory marked the culmination of a season that began when students received their music in May and practiced independently before band camp started the first week of August with 12-hour days.
During the school year, musicians met throughout the day and for two hours two nights a week, and the ensemble also played for every home football game. Leading up to the state festival, the Trojans competed in the Fossil Ridge Marching Band Festival in Colorado and won first place at the University of Wyoming’s Troopers Marching Band Invitational.
Senior baritone saxophone player Colby Kiser described the state performance as one of the band’s best throughout the whole year. For many members, the competition represented the culmination of four years of marching band experience.
Band director Parks said he hopes everyone remembers they achieved the win together. Director Hanson said she hopes students take away not only a love for music but also an appreciation for all the bands and musicians who competed at the festival. While the festival marks the end of the 2026 marching band season, Hanson said she hopes the program will continue to grow next year.
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