Band competitions are events where marching or concert bands perform for judges who evaluate their music, visual design, and overall impact based on criteria like technique, creativity, and execution. Formats vary, including field shows (marching), concert hall performances, or sight-reading contests, organized by groups like Bands of America (BOA), UIL, or USBands.

Competitions are important because they foster musical and personal growth, teaching students discipline, teamwork, and resilience. They provide feedback from experts to improve skills, showcase the band’s hard work to the community, and build school pride. For students, competing offers memorable experiences, leadership opportunities, and a chance to earn awards or qualify for prestigious events like state or national championships.

The majority of what must be brought to competions mirror the requirements for football games. There are additional recommended items for students listed below as well.

• Garment Bag with Full Uniform

• Band Shorts

• Red Compression Shirt

• Long Black Socks

• Marching Shoes

• Full Water Jug w/Koozie

• Flip Folder w/Lyre

• Instrument w/accessories (mouthpiece, reeds, neckstrap, etc)

• Snacks

• Money for concessions and/or competition swag

• Comfort items for the bus ride (bus rides could be as long as three (3) hours one way.

Absolutely. Meals are provide during competition days. Meals vary based on competition performance times. The published schedule will outline what meals are provided during that particular competition. Students should also bring snacks.

"The University Interscholastic League [UIL] exists to provide educational extracurricular academic, athletic, and music contests." There are several tiers for UIL contests. These tiers include Regional, Area, and State. During the Regional contest, marching bands are judged and graded Division Levels 1 to 4. In order to advance to the Area contest, marching bands must score a Division 1 at the Region contest. At the Area contest, all bands perform during prelims and are scored based on their performance. Typically, the top 10 bands advance to the final round. In Conferences 5A/6A (HHHS is in the 6A Conference), the top two (2) bands are typically certified to the state marching band contest. To learn more about UIL Music contests visit here.

USBands and Bands of America (BOA) are independent companies that hosts marching band contests throughout the nation. These private organizationa are not affiliated with any school districts. Marching bands are placed in to specific classes based on the high school's total student population. Depending on the specific contest, the highest-scoring bands regardless of class advance to the finals performance.

Supporters of the band are vital to the overall success of the band.

As volunteers, chaperones ride buses, manage students, and handle emergencies like first aid or uniform repairs. The Road Crew load and unload instruments, props, and water, requiring some physical strength. Other roles include meal planning, uniform organization, or taking photos/videos.

Those who are unable to volunteer are also essential to the band's performance. Supporters can cheer from the stands and wear school colors to show support.

For those interested in volunteering, please contact our Booster Volunteer Coordinator at parentvolunteers@redbrigade.band.