Water Valley, TX– The Water Valley High School Marching Band has made history by securing 6th place at the UIL 1A State Marching Contest, marking the first time the band has ever reached the state finals. The competition, held at the Alamodome in San Antonio, brought together the best high school marching bands from across Texas in a high-stakes showdown of musical talent, precision, and performance.
Under the direction of Band Director Dr. David Andrus, the Water Valley Band performed with a level of skill and dedication that earned them a spot among the state’s elite. Competing against top 1A bands from all over the state, Water Valley’s impressive finish is a monumental achievement for the program, which has never before advanced to the state finals in the history of the district.
“It’s an incredible achievement for our students and the entire community of Water Valley,” said Dr. Andrus. “To finish in the top 7 at the state level and to be the first Water Valley band to make it to finals is something we’ll all remember. This achievement speaks volumes about the hard work and commitment of our students and their passion for music.”
The UIL State Marching Contest is one of the most prestigious events for Texas high school bands, and reaching the state finals is a highly coveted honor. Water Valley’s 6th place finish places them among the top marching bands in the 1A classification, a remarkable feat for a small school.
The band's performance included a complex drill, intricate musical selections, and flawless execution, which impressed both the judges and the audience. Praise was given for their precision, musicality, and ensemble cohesion, with many noting the band's exceptional stage presence.
“As a band, we’ve put in hours of hard work, and this recognition is a reflection of that dedication,” said Triton Lyons, a member of the band. “It’s been an unforgettable experience, and we’re so proud to be part of Water Valley’s first-ever UIL State Finals appearance.”
As the marching season draws to a close, both students and staff are already looking ahead to next year. “We’ve set a new standard for our program,” said Korbin Tew. “Now, we’ll continue to build on this success and strive for even more next season.”
Water Valley’s achievement at the UIL State Marching Contest not only highlights the talent and perseverance of the students but also serves as a source of pride for the entire Water Valley community. Congratulations to the Water Valley High School Marching Band on making history with their impressive 6th place finish!