Academy High School band headed to state for first time in 24 Years

LITTLE RIVER, Texas (KWTX) - Academy High School’s marching band is getting ready to compete in the state competition for the first time in 24 years.

The band qualified for the prestigious 3A state competition after great showings at both district competition in Troy and area competition in Robinson.

The Academy Bee Band Head Director Jennifer Essary is in her fourth year with the program and says every year gets better.

“Last year we were so close to making state,” Essary said. “We fell just short and this year we came back with a vengeance, and I think it really spurred the students to try extra hard, do the extra work, go the extra mile every day to really help us meet our goals.”

Avry Hoffman is the senior head drum major and said leading such a talented group of musicians has been amazing and making it to state is icing on the cake.

“It means everything, especially for me to be the face of the band, but definitely for them because they’re the ones putting in the hours. They’re the ones putting in the work in and out of practice,” Hoffman said. “I feel like it’s definitely something they’re going to remember and something they’re proud of to walk around the school.”

The band’s show is called “Illuminant,” and Essary said the theme helped create a spark.

“It represents hope and joy,” Essary said. “It’s a very uplifting, fun and positive show.”

Alia Thompson is the senior band president and said working hard together with one goal has been the focus.

“We are all really thrilled and excited, but we’re trying to stay focused on our new goal of making the state finals,” Thompson said.

The 3A State Marching Band State Competition will be on November 12th at the Alamodome in San Antonio.

Academy will march at 10:15 a.m. in the prelims and if they make the finals, they’ll march later in the evening.

The last time the Academy band qualified for state was 2001.

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