The DeKalb County High School Band traveled to South Doyle High School in Knoxville for the Smoky Mountain Invitational Marching Band Festival on Saturday and outscored 9 other bands in 2 separate classes. The band brought home 8 trophies in all, three of which were larger than some of the students.
The DC Color Guard placed 2nd in class A just behind the Alcoa Color Guard. The guard scored enough to beat two of the four bands in the class by upwards of 4 points.
A score of 88.38 placed the band 1st in class A and 1st in Division which was a combination of Class A and AA, beating out bands that were larger. The next closest score was 86.13 by Jefferson County in the larger class.
The percussion section outscored the others in class and division as well. 89.50 was the score that beat out the Gibbs County percussion section who scored a 88.00.
The Field Commander Dustin Estes, assisted by Michelle Scott placed 1st in class and 1st in Division with a score of 94. That score was 4 points higher than any other field commander in the whole competition. (Class A, AA, AAA, AAAA).
Band Director Chuck Gilbert said “it’s really good to get the wins that these students deserve but we can’t stew on it. We have to use it for fuel and look ahead to our Division II State Championship next weekend” When asked about the performance Mr. Gilbert said “I hadn’t seen any of our competition when we came off the field but I knew they had just put on a performance that was worthy of a 1st place trophy. It was good to actually bring home the hardware. I want everyone to know how hard these students work. I am very proud of them and I hope they are proud of themselves. They deserve this win”.
As the Band buses made their way back to DeKalb County they were greeted at the county line by two county sheriff cars with lights flashing. One escorted from the front and one in behind. As they got to the City Limits of Smithville, a City Police Car stepped up in front of the whole caravan. Band Booster President Kennie Barnes, who is one of the drivers of the Equipment Bus, said “It’s really good to get to make some racket for these kids. I’d like to thank the sheriff’s department and police department for being so supportive of our kids.”
Next weekend the High School Band travels to Goodpasture High School for the Division II State Championship. They are scheduled to take the field for their performance at 1:45pm. Mr. Gilbert said “We should know the full schedule by mid-week”. For those that are interested in driving up with the “Tiger Band Caravan” can call the band room at 597-7213 or log onto www.DekalbBand.com for the schedule.
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