ICYMI: 2017 Bands of America Season Hits Ground Running

This past weekend brought the first two Bands of America Regional Championships to the field to start the 2017 season on the right foot... or left.

Sep 19, 2017 by Andy Schamma

ICYMI: 2017 Bands of America Season Hits Ground Running

This past weekend brought the first two Bands of America Regional Championships to the field to start the 2017 season on the right foot... or left. At the Northeast Ohio Regional on Saturday, bands from five states met at the Pro Football Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio, to show off the first version of their competitive shows. In Powder Springs, GA,13 bands met at McEachern High School, including big names such as Harrison (GA), Mill Creek (GA), and Cary Senior (NC).

Perhaps the best part about the early stages of the Bands of America season is getting to see all of the groups unveil their show concepts, props, and the elements that make their 2017 shows unique. Take a look at some of these bands we spotlighted this weekend!

Avon Battery Locking It In

The Avon (IN) Marching Black and Gold made their 2017 debut after a very successful 2016 season over the weekend in Canton and came out with a great performance in prelims and finals. Humidity and the hot Ohio sun were giving some of the bands trouble in the warmup lot, but the Avon battery was locked in and focused throughout. You'll want to hear this incredible bassline and take a look into their warmup from prelims.

Harrison Handles The Heat

Despite a silly start involving the buses leaving the band directors at the school and a hot warmup in the peak temperatures of the day, the Harrison band still persevered. After the show, its members celebrated their favorite memories of the day and recounted the importance of what Bands of America events are for: interacting with other incredible performers and spreading the enjoyment of music! Check out our interview with their director, Josh Ray, below to hear more!

Turpin Circles Up Before Finals

Turpin (Ohio) was the talk of the stadium with its 2017 show "Into the Wild." Hear from band director Joe Wesch speak to the students before they hit the field for finals. If you're a percussionist that likes stick tricks, you'll want to check out their show at some point this season!