Band students achieve state solo ensemble contest qualification and sweepstakes award

The PHS Spring 2025 Band Concert, held on May 21, 2025, showcased the talents of students and celebrated their achievements in music. The event began with a discussion on the upcoming solo and ensemble season, where students prepare either a solo performance or participate in small chamber groups. This year, six students advanced to the state solo and ensemble contest, marking an improvement from the previous year.

Following this announcement, the band performed "Lock Blonde," one of their UIL pieces that earned a Division I rating. The concert continued with highlights from the UIL concert and sight-reading contest, where the band also achieved a Division I rating, leading to their first sweepstakes award in 19 years. The director emphasized the students' hard work and dedication, attributing much of the success to their talent and musicianship.

Awards were presented to outstanding brass players, including Abraham Gonzalez, Rylan Flores, Edgar Vio, Adolfo Fernandez, Hissers Quintanas, and Aiko Velez, who was unable to attend. The concert featured a special performance of "How to Train Your Dragon," celebrating the upcoming movie release.

Recognition was also given to key contributors to the marching season, including drum majors David Murillo and Sergio Bennett, as well as soloists from the marching show. The Knighton Bandsman Award was presented to David Murillo, while the Director's Choice Award went to Peyton McClain for his long-standing dedication to the band.

The concert concluded with the performance of "Choose Joy," followed by a presentation from the newly elected band officers, Gerardo Rosales and Manny Kitchens, who expressed gratitude to the directors for their guidance. The event highlighted the band’s achievements and fostered a sense of community among students, parents, and faculty.