It was a busy weekend for two local high schools as members of the Elizabethton High School and Happy Valley High School bands competed in an invitational tournament.
The Elizabethton High School Betsy Band was named the “Grand Champion” at Science Hill High School’s Hilltopper Invitational held Saturday, Oct. 29, in Johnson City for their show titled “Under Construction, the Road that Leads Home.”
The win comes on the heels of another top finish at Farragut High School in Knoxville last Saturday. In addition for the top finish for 3A/4A, the Besty Band, directed by Drum Major Grace Roberts, was also awarded first place for visual and second for music. In 4A, they placed first overall in guard. Percussion placed second. Competition in 3A included Morristown West, Sullivan Central and Carter high schools. Jefferson County and Sullivan North competed against the Betsy Band in 4A.
The Happy Valley High School also competed in the Hilltopper Invitational in 2A against David Crockett, Cherokee, Sullivan East, Unicoi County, Pigeon Forge and North Greene.
The Warrior Marching Band, under the direction of Drum Major Jake Johnson, placed first in guard for their show “Music from the Movie Shrek.”
The Betsy Band will travel to Stewarts Creek High School in Smyrna, Tenn., on Saturday, Nov. 5, to compete in the Tennessee Division II State Marching Band Championship.