As the 2017 Bands of America season is approaching, we take a look back at the bands who made it all the way to the 2016 Grand National Finals.

Big hair, bright colors, and a Daft Punk helmet aren't the only things that define Claudia Taylor Johnson's 2016 production "Flashdance." But they are definitely a good starting point. 

As we continue to make our way through the 2016 Bands of America Grand National finalists, it's time to get our 80s and 90s dance on with the band from San Antonio that isn't afraid to push the boundaries of your typical marching band show.

"We talk a lot to the kids about not performing just to be noticed," CTJ director Jarret Lipman said. "But performing to be remembered."

Creating a memorable show is exactly what CTJ accomplished this year. In FloMarching's film All Access: Claudia Taylor Johnson, Lipman said he wanted the band's performance to showcase not only the typical high demands of moving and playing but also interject multiple moments where the crowd could set its intellectual interpretive hats down and just enjoy watching CTJ.



Right from the beginning of their pre-show, CTJ's parents and staff got the crowd clapping to a very difficult clarinet solo. This led into every member of the band previewing the different dances that were coming throughout the show. The color guard provided not just color and dance but also the attitude that reflected the era of each dance. All the while, challenging drill and musical arrangements provided the judges with plenty to chew on. 

"[BOA Grand Nationals] is a place that loves band," Lipman said to CTJ's members. "It knows great band. And you are one of those."

After successful runs at the BOA Austin and Conroe Regionals, the San Antonio Super Regional, and becoming a Grand National finalist, Claudia Taylor Johnson will definitely be remembered.

UPCOMING 2017 BOA EVENTS:

BOA Austin Regional
BOA West Texas Regional
BOA San Antonio Super Regional

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