The band was the smallest in competition on the day with only 28 total members and they ended up winning all three major judging captions of music, marching, and overall effect. Also, winning five of the six judges who were scoring each band’s individual performance. The band is under the direction of Steve McGinnis with assistance from Associate Director Bryce Benning and Color Guard Instructor Dalen Kirby.
The band was also able to capture the very first lower state title this season as well.
“I inherited a very talented and well trained group of musicians,” said McGinnis. “My predecessor Cameron Watkins set up the band program at Chesterfield incredibly well. All marching season we as a staff have been blown away at their ability to overcome obstacles everyday no matter the conditions.
“We have preached hard work all season, and the goal was never to win a state title but to out work everyone else. If the students could accomplish that, the competition would take care of itself. These young man and women show up and work more than a team but as a family toward a common goal of excellence. At times it was difficult, but this group choose to stay the course and be rewarded.
“I also have to mention the never-ending support from the band boosters, the community at large and the administration at Chesterfield High. This honor would not have been possible without each and every one of them. I am just excited for these students they can take this memory with them for the rest of their lives and no one can take it away. Over this season, I hoped each day that these students learned the value of hard work and dedication. Because on Saturday they proved they had what it took to overcome adversity. We all couldn’t be more proud.”