Cheney, Washington – After a landmark trip to Indianapolis in 2024, the Cheney High School marching band is already planning a return to the Bands of America Grand National Championship next school year. The event, held annually in Indianapolis, draws top high school bands from across the United States and offers students a rare chance to compete on a national stage.
Building character through music
Band director Joshua Wisswell says the program’s mission goes beyond notes and formations. “Our program is really based around the fact of creating future great young adults through hard work, and music is just our avenue to get them to that point,” he explained. For many students, the trip represents a once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience that reinforces discipline, teamwork, and personal growth.
Student perspective
Senior Addison Lathrop echoed that sentiment, describing the upcoming journey as “everything for a lot of these students.” The opportunity to perform at a national competition not only showcases musical talent but also strengthens bonds among classmates and mentors.
Community fundraising effort
Funding the trip relies heavily on local support. Each year the band hosts an apple‑pie bake sale that generates between $18,000 and $22,000, covering a substantial portion of travel and equipment costs. School leaders hope the Indianapolis trip can become a recurring, once‑every‑four‑years tradition, ensuring future generations of Cheney students can benefit from the experience.
Looking ahead
As the football season progresses, the band continues to perform at halftime shows, keeping the community engaged while preparing for the national competition. Administrators, parents, and alumni are already discussing ways to sustain the fundraising model and explore additional sponsorships to keep the program thriving.
Why it matters
Beyond the accolades of competition, the marching band serves as a vital outlet for youth development in Cheney. By emphasizing hard work, responsibility, and artistic expression, the program aligns with the community’s commitment to nurturing strong families and future leaders.
With the support of teachers, parents, and local businesses, the Cheney marching band aims to return to Indianapolis, continuing a tradition of excellence that began with the historic 2024 trip.
Original reporting: KHQ Spokane (news) — read the source article.
