The Crestwood Scarlet Guard Marching Band has kicked off its 2025 fall marching band season with a roar, earning top honors and national recognition with their competition show Wild Things. At their first competition on September 13, the band qualified for the OMEA State Finals, and was also named 1st place in Class A and Best Percussion. Just one week later, they traveled to Toledo, Ohio for the Bands of America Regional Championships, facing 22 elite bands from across seven states. Crestwood emerged as Class A Regional Champions, also winning Best Music and Best General Effect in their class. As Class A champions, the Scarlet Guard performed in exhibition at evening finals, receiving a standing ovation from an electric crowd.
The Scarlet Guard’s show features original arrangements by music arranger Alex Thode, transporting audiences into the story of the Wild Things. The production highlights an array of talented soloists: Thea Kasper, Emma Lyons, Brady Major, Damien Richards, Lily Hemrock, Alice Forson, Natalie Prijatel, Marcella Zak, and Lauren Hawley. Senior Drum Major Lee Agnes and Junior Drum Major Emily Maretka lead the ensemble on the field. The Crestwood band program is under the leadership of Angela Adkins, who is in her 7th year at Crestwood and 25th year overall in music education.
Next up, the band now looks ahead to another milestone performance at Ohio State University’s legendary “Horse Shoe” on October 11 at 3 p.m.—the Scarlet Guard’s first-ever appearance at this prestigious venue. From there, they will travel to Brunswick on October 18 before returning to the OMEA State Marching Band Finals on October 25.
The Scarlet Guard’s success would not be possible without the unwavering support of the Crestwood Local Schools including Superintendent Aireane Curtis, Principal Dave McMahon, and the dedicated Crestwood Band Boosters led by President Carla Sindelar. Thank you to the many families, alumni, and the Crestwood Schools community who continue support music education in the Crestwood Local Schools.
Please visit http://www.crestwoodbands.com/ for our latest fundraiser to show them your support.
