The Cheney High School Marching Band and Color Guard celebrated a remarkable victory at the Harvest Festival of Bands on October 21, securing 2nd Place in their division and a coveted Best Visual Award.
The win is a testament to their dedication, teamwork, and musical excellence according to Band Director Joshua Wisswell.
Wisswell emphasized their strong, supportive, and collaborative culture, both on and off the field.
“Off the field, we are a close-knit group that supports each other emotionally,” Wisswell said. “On the field everyone understands how important they are, not for their own success, but so that everyone around them can rely on them so we can be successful as a team.”
They dedicate an extraordinary amount of time to perfecting their craft and constantly strive for improvement according to Wisswell.
Wisswell also acknowledged the indispensable role played by the Blackhawk Band Parent Booster parents, who devote countless volunteer hours to ensure the band’s success.
“They put in thousands of hours of volunteer time between running events, building and performing maintenance on our props, preparing food, fitting and maintaining uniforms,” said Wisswell. “Their behind-the-scenes efforts are invaluable.”
The band’s finals performance on Saturday was electric, leaving students beaming with pride.
Wisswell described the scene as “irreplaceable” and the energy was palpable. The audience’s support added to the exhilaration, leaving indelible memories for everyone involved.
Looking ahead, the band is determined to finish the current season on a high note, with an upcoming awards banquet and a final performance on home turf.
They also have their sights set on defending their overall first-place win in Everett, Washington.
In the long term, Wisswell said, they’re gearing up for a remarkable trip to the Bands of America Grand National Championships in Indianapolis, Indiana, in November 2024.
To make this dream a reality, they’ll need substantial community support and fundraising.
Wisswell hopes they realize that the skills acquired, such as teamwork, time management, and a strong work ethic, extend beyond high school and are invaluable in their future endeavors.
He said the Cheney High School band’s accomplishment underscores the importance of supporting and investing in music programs in schools. According to Wisswell, music and the arts are integral to personal development, fostering a sense of belonging, honor, and safety.
They exemplify the “Blackhawk Way,” showcasing how music education connects students to their school, promotes honor, supports others, and creates a safe and inclusive environment.
Clare is an Eastern Washington University graduate and a reporter at Free Press Publishing.
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