The Alba-Golden Panther Band earned unanimous Division I ratings at the UIL Region 4 marching contest on Oct. 14 in Mount Pleasant and advanced to the Class 2A Area C competition in Longview. The band finished 10th at Area on Oct. 31. Directors Daniel Curry and Steven Whitecotton led the group of 25 students, whose show was titled "Break-through."
At the Iron Horse Classic hosted by Mineola High School, the band earned Outstanding Class 2A Music, Outstanding Class 2A Visual and Overall Outstanding Class 2A Band. At Area, 11 bands competed for four state championship spots. Rivercrest, Tenaha, Cooper and Frankston advanced.
Curry said the band did not advance to state but that he was proud of its growth. Senior percussionist Jacob Neigel, who has been in band for eight years, said the group improved each season. In April, the Alba-Golden ISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved $24,700 for new band uniforms.