Round Rock ISD hosted the 24th Annual Festival of Bands at the Kelly Reeves Athletic Complex on October 1.
The event showcased the incredible talents of student musicians and performers from across our district.
Round Rock High School senior Anagha Uppaluru said she was grateful for the opportunity.
“Not a lot of bands are able to perform like this or have this type of supportive audience for them. Having a community that helps us do things like this is amazing,” she said.
Festival of Bands brought together band members from our five high schools and eleven middle schools, drawing more than 4,000 community members to celebrate the musical achievements of Round Rock ISD students. It also gave students a chance to practice in competition style, leading up to their UIL marching competitions later this season.
Cedar Ridge sophomore Morgan Jenkins said she enjoyed the festival.
“It was a really cool experience,” Jenkins said. “I’ve learned a lot and got to be a part of something with my friends. I think band is a really cool thing to be a part of in high school!”
In a stunning display of unity and talent, over 550 middle school students also took the field for their very first performance together, creating an opportunity for younger students to show off their skills and see older students perform, hopefully encouraging them along their musical journeys.
Anagha said she remembers being in their shoes.
“My brother was actually in the Round Rock band before I was. I remember watching him when I was younger and thinking I wanted to be a drum major. I definitely did what I could to make it happen,” she said.
Festival of Bands also partnered with Cedar Ridge’s AV Production Team for the first time to feature multi-camera interviews and stream the performances on the jumbotron.
Festival of Bands highlights the individual talents of our students and reinforces the importance of community support for the district’s fine arts program at Round Rock ISD.
“The 24th annual Festival of Bands was a night to remember,” said Jager Loyde, Director of Fine Arts – Music. “From ensuring smooth transportation and managing the amazing field performances to accommodating our audience, the event was a total success!”
Loyde said he wishes all our bands the best of luck as they continue pursuing artistic excellence this marching season.
