Marching band contest season has officially come to an end with five area bands competing at OSSAA Regionals over the last two weeks. Four of the bands received II or Excellent ratings -- McLoud, Stroud, Chandler and North Rock Creek. Prague received a III.
McLoud Band Director Cody Tollison said the end of the competition season lifts a weight because now things are winding down. He was happy with the band’s score, saying it shows there are a lot of things being done right, but they aren’t quite there yet.
“If I compare it to last year, the kids are doing 10 times better this year. We did so much better overall,” he said. “On an individual basis with attitude, structure, with playing notes, rhythms, marching, everything. Everything is a lot better this year.”
Earlier in the season the Redskin Regiment placed first in 4A for Konowa Band Day and he said this is the first time they’ve received a II at regionals in a while. While the band wanted a I -- like many -- it just didn’t happen this year.
“I’m happy with it, and like I said, I wanted I, they wanted I, but then it’s growth, and we see it, our administration sees it, even other directors see how much we’re growing,” he said.
Prague Band Director Trevor Harrold said that he is proud of his band’s performance.
“They came together with great focus and determination. It was unfortunately quite hot that afternoon, which no doubt had an effect on their stamina, but they powered through and had a very entertaining show,” he said.
He added that the kids are pleased with themselves, saying they know that their skill has grown along with their teamwork and they also know how to be proud of their effort and growth -- not of their results.
“The highlight of the show was the fully completed third movement. Regionals was the first time they were able to put the whole show together from start to finish for a roughly 9 minute show, which was a longer stretch than last year and a huge thematic improvement also,” he said.
With Harrold’s time at Prague coming to an end when this semester is finishing, he said he is eager to present a wonderful Veterans Day Assembly performance and Christmas Concert for the community.