The Crestwood Scarlet Guard Marching Band has wrapped up an unforgettable competition season! The band has earned an Overall Superior Rating at every competition it entered this season, culminating in an extraordinary performance at the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) State Band Finals on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at Hilliard Bradley High School in Columbus, Ohio.
From their season opener to their final performance at state, the Scarlet Guard was consistently earning top honors and setting the bar for excellence in Ohio’s competitive marching band arena. The band’s remarkable consistency and musical prowess were on full display as they received superior ratings at every OMEA Event this fall including: Louisville, Revere, Copley, and Brunswick; securing a spot in the top three of their class at each event. This is the 38th time, fifth consecutive and 41st overall the band has qualified for the OMEA State Marching Band Finals since 1983.
Not only did the Scarlet Guard perform at local competitions, but they also performed again at the regional level at the Bands of America Regional Championships in September. Competing against top bands from Ohio, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Michigan, and Illinois, the Scarlet Guard finished in the top five for their class, as one of the Midwest’s premier High School Class A Marching Bands.
The band’s 2024 show, titled *Immortal*, took audiences on a captivating, spooky journey through some of the most profound music in classical history. The program, which featured haunting selections from Mozart’s *Requiem* and other masterful composers, transported spectators into a world of a haunting journey. These musicians, alongside their fellow band members, demonstrated the musicianship, visuals and performance that has come to define the Crestwood Scarlet Guard.
Director of Bands, Angela Adkins, now in her sixth year at Crestwood and 24th year overall, continues to lead the band with family and musicianship at the core. Her leadership has continued the Scarlet Guard long tradition of success, making this season one of the most memorable in the band’s history.
The journey to the OMEA State Finals on October 26th was a testament to the talent and tenacity of every band member. The Scarlet Guard’s performance at Hilliard Bradley High School was nothing short of exceptional. The band earned a Superior Rating at the highest possible honor, and the audience celebrated in applause for what was, without question, the performance of the year. As the final notes of *Immortal* rang through the stadium at Hilliard Bradley, the Crestwood Scarlet Guard had not only earned a Superior Rating but many smiles from all the band’s students on a job well done!
The support of the Crestwood Local Schools and community has been instrumental throughout the season, with parents volunteering their time and energy to ensure the band’s success.
Congratulations to the Crestwood Scarlet Guard Marching Band on your Superior Season!
