Written by Mara Davis
The Algona Bands have participated in many activities throughout the school year, from marching to All-State performances.
The year started off with marching band. Learning the music and marching in the summer, they kept busy by performing at home football games and participating in the annual Algona Band Day celebrations. During these events, the marching band played many standout songs, including “Bad Guy” by Billie Eilish and “Holding Out for a Hero” by Bonnie Tyler. Even though they cannot be placed as a school, the Scarlet Regiment showed off their outstanding talent at Band Day in the parade and field events.
The Algona High band students performed their first concert of the school year on October 1st. The band's most recent winter concert was held on December 3rd, at Wilcox's Performing Arts Center. The 5th through 12th grade Algona bands impressed the crowd with the music they practiced throughout the school year.
In late October, 12 Algona band students auditioned for the All-State Band, and six gifted musicians qualified. These students include Abigail Droessler, David Kissinger, Paul Kissinger, Axel Mortensen, Owen Orban, and Chance Studer. All-State Band is an annual event that showcases high school musicians and vocalists from around Iowa. Every year they perform at the All-State Music Festival in November. Well done and congratulations to the six students who qualified!
On January 11th, 13 Algona band students were selected to take part in the North Central Iowa Bandmasters Association (NCIBA) Honor Band Festival. During this day-long event, young musicians from across North Central Iowa rehearsed with many different directors to improve their skills. As the day ended, the band students performed a concert to display their talents. Qualifier Thomas Espe says, “It was a fun experience meeting people from around the district.”
Dog Pound Sound, a pep band that includes various community members and Algona students, has helped hype up the Algona fans by performing during home football games every season. They continue to perform for the Algona fans during girls’ and boys’ basketball games. Show up to the next Varsity basketball game to support and hear their talents!
Their next concert will be on March 4th in the PAC. Good luck, band!