Ragin’ Red Band scores top rating, preps for UIL contest

The Albany High School Ragin’ Red Band returned from the Seymour Band Festival on Oct. 4 with a first division rating from all five judges, a milestone band director Jessica Watkins praised as a testament to the students’ focus and adaptability.

“At the Seymour contest we had a rough first performance, but the judges gave great feedback,” Watkins said. “We went into the auditorium and listened to their comments before our second performance. The kids were able to make corrections and improvements without a rehearsal and had a very much improved second run. I’m so proud of the kids for being able to pull it together and give a great performance.”

At the Seymour festival, each band is judged twice.

“This gives us two performances in one day, which really helps in preparing for UIL,” Watkins said.

The group is now focused on the UIL Region 6 Marching Contest, set for Monday, Oct. 20, at Shotwell Stadium in Abilene. Albany will perform at 4:45 p.m. 

Bands that rate high enough at the region level advance to the Area Marching Contest on Oct. 25 at Bivins Stadium in Amarillo for a chance to compete at the state contest in San Antonio.

To prepare for the region contest, the band rehearsed at Cisco’s stadium on Monday, Oct. 13 to become accustomed to performing on turf, even though it was not a school day for the students. 

Watkins encourages the community to come out and support the band at Shotwell Stadium on Monday. There is an $8 entry fee.

“We’d love to see everyone there!” the director said.

About 40 members make up this year’s Ragin’ Red Band, directed by Watkins with assistance from Riley Lusk. Their contest show, titled Ancient World and composed by Carol Brittin Chambers, explores the Byzantine Empire. Watkins said props help visualize the theme.