Casper, WY – On Saturday, Oct. 17, the Wyoming State Marching Band Festival returns to the Ford Wyoming Center, bringing together student musicians from across the state for a day of music, competition, and community.
Kelly Walsh High School prepares to shine
Band Director Sarah Hanson says Kelly Walsh High School (KWHS) is ready to deliver a memorable performance. “Kelly Walsh has a long tradition of being a part of the State Marching Band competition up at the Ford Wyoming Center,” Hanson explained. “Every year, it’s a great culminating event where we get to support our fellow bands from around the state, as well as show everyone else what we’ve been working on the last few months.”
Hanson emphasized the positive atmosphere among the participants. “While State Marching Band is a competition, there’s no envy or bad thoughts from the students or directors regarding other teams. Everybody is simply there to do their best,” she said.
“Cosmic Frontier” – a space‑themed showcase
This year’s KWHS show, titled “Cosmic Frontier,” is described as a “Space Cowboys” theme. The set will feature classic pieces such as Gustav Holst’s “Mars” from The Planets and Michael Giacchino’s “Enterprising Young Men” from the Star Trekk soundtrack, among other selections. “It’s really fun music that I think people will enjoy,” Hanson added.
Students share why band matters
Assistant drum major Madalynn McCullough looks forward to the weekend as an opportunity to showcase the hard work the band has put in. “I’m feeling pretty good. I think we’re going to crush it,” she said.
McCullough highlighted the relationships and community built through marching band. “I love looking out onto the field every day and seeing everyone having fun and finding their happy place,” she said.
Color guard section leader Mollie Wood echoed the sentiment, noting how teamwork is essential. “If you’re not together, then you can’t give the effect that we want to give. It’s important to be friends and have a team,” Wood explained. She also enjoys helping newer members adjust and loves the final pose of the show, describing it as “a giant beat” that feels rewarding.
Festival details and community impact
The State Marching Band Festival will run from 2 p.m. to about 10 p.m. on Oct. 17, with Kelly Walsh’s performance slated for approximately 8 p.m. The event offers families and music lovers a chance to experience young talent from across Wyoming.
Hanson expressed pride in her students and confidence that the audience will share that pride. “These students love band because of the family and the relationships they make along the way,” she said. “They work incredibly hard, whether it’s August in the blazing sun or October in the snow. It’s really the opportunity for them to make something special, as a team.”
Community members are encouraged to attend and support the young musicians. “Audiences have a great opportunity to hear some fantastic music and to see some young people really doing amazing things,” Hanson concluded. “We’d love to have them come support Kelly Walsh and, hopefully, we’ll have a great run on Saturday.”
For more information, visit wyomea.org/event/16913/.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
