Fact: Texas (probably) has the highest concentration of marching band kids per capita than any other state, according to some impressive national rankings. As shown here, 16 of the top 30 bands in the United States are from high schools in Texas!
Texas is well-known for its show-stopping and award-winning high school marching bands. These kids know how to put on a show! From playing familiar hits with a fun twist on a wide range of instruments, to theatric uniforms, to moving in perfect unison, these performers know a thing or two about good music—and showmanship. The crowds think so too, as more folks show up each year to watch their local band play at halftime.
(Pro tip: There’s no better way to watch one great band after another than to hit up a marching band competition.)
Check out a few of our favorite Texas bands and where you can find them:
Marcus High School, Flower Mound
This impressive band has placed first in five state UIL competitions in recent years and comes in at #16 on the national scale. They have received both the Sudler Shield and the Sudler Flag awards, and consistently puts on an impressive show. Keep an eye on them in the coming seasons!
The Ronald Reagan High School Band, San Antonio
The Ronald Reagan Band is a consistent regional and super regional finalist, as well as a former Grand National finalist. They are known for arresting visuals, creative effects, and a unique blending of music, theater, and art in all their performances. You can watch them in the upcoming 2019 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Vista Ridge Highschool, Leander
Last year, Vista Ridge high school in Leander ISD brought home first place in the UIL 6A Marching Band contest. This was the first time in 20 years that any school district outside of the DFW area won the UIL’s top division for the largest schools in the state. That’s a big deal! If you’re local to Central Texas, don’t miss your chance to watch them play.
The Spirit of Waxahachie Indian Band, Waxahachie
This exceptionally talented band has placed in the top 10 in their last four UIL competitions, in addition to several standout “Best in Class” awards. They’re consistently known for their style, flair, and musical talent, especially their concert band. Their Jazz Orchestra will be performing at the 2019 Midwest International Band and Orchestra Conference in Chicago.
Hebron High School, Carrollton
The Hebron band is one of the highest ranked and most respected high school bands in the nation. They’re known for high standards, excellent music, and consistently rank highly in rankings nationwide. They’re former Grand National finalists, regular regional and super regional finalists, and have received both the Sudler Shield and the Sudler Flag.
Rouse High School, Leander
One of our favorite up and coming bands, is Leander ISD’s Rouse High School. They were the 2018 Class AA Champions at Bands of America Austin Regional and at Bands of America Super Regional in San Antonio, sweeping the Outstanding Music Performance, Outstanding Visual Performance and Outstanding General Effect awards. They were also the 5A Champion at last year’s Texas Marching Classic. Right now, they’re hard at work perfecting their 2019 show “Midnight City,” and we expect to see big things from this band this year.
These are just a few of our favorites, but we’re always on the lookout for a good show. Send a local band or two our way if you’ve got some hidden talent in your backyard. Contact Park Place Finance if we can help out with any of your mortgage lending needs—or if you just want to tell us about your favorite band.