AHS band gets 2’s at UIL contest

By Sandy Morris

The Albany High School marching band competed in the University Interscholastic League East Zone marching contest this past Saturday, Nov. 7 at 11:00 a.m. at Abilene Wylie stadium.

The Ragin’ Red Band earned straight 2’s from all three judges, which band director Will Vaughan said is a big improvement from last year when the band received two 3’s and a 4.

“The band had a very good performance of the show,” said Vaughan. “The positive comments from the judges show us that the band is on the right track.” 

One judge told Vaughan that he enjoyed the performance and that the kids should be proud of the product.

“The region executive music secretary said the band had made an amazing turn-around compared to last year,” said Vaughan. “They’ve worked hard, and I’m proud of them.”  

Even though they will continue to perform during playoff football games, concert season now begins for the band. 

“The band is excited to start working on fundamentals and filling in some of the missing gaps in their musical education,” said the director. “I told the kids this morning that concert season is where we prepare and develop to earn top marks in the marching band.” 

Band members are starting preparations for a holiday concert in December and UIL Concert and Sightreading Contest in April of 2021.