Big Red Band made history Saturday as it brought home the gold as champions of the 4A State Marching Band Competition.
Along with the gold and history making distinction, it brought a trophy that dominates a collection it has accumulated following competitions during recent months. From the 14 bands in the competition, it scored first place in General Effect, second in Color Guard and Percusssion.
The scores in competition leading to the state contest included overall grand champions at the Copiah Invitational; second at the Tenn-Tom Marching Classic in Aberdeen; first place at the Hoover Invitational in Hoover, Ala.; first at the Pearl Invitational.
Veteran Band Director Jessie Yates said Monday that the feeling from winning was incredible. “I am so happy for the students. They have worked hard and I am glad to see it pay off,” he said.
Band members, along with Yates were wearing their gold medals at school on Monday.
“Telltale Heart,” under the direction of drum major Josh Ellard, was the show theme presented at the Saturday competition held at Clinton High School.
Yates said the band members’ excitement at winning came with their playing “Kosy Hi” the minute the announcement of the championship was made. “That was a special moment,” he said. Yates is in his seventh year as director is an alumnus of the band of which he served as drum major.
Second place and silver medal winner in the state championship competition was Pass Christian High School Band under the direction of Gavin McAdams, a former member of Big Red.
Yates said an event to honor the band is planned.
