GLENWOOD — For the 27th year in a row, the Creston Panther Marching Band has brought a I rating home from state contest.
The band performed its field routine, “Imagination in Color,” at Glenwood High School Saturday, returning as one of only two 3A schools to receive the top rating.
At 105 members, Creston’s marching band is the largest in at least 21 years. Director Mike Peters said he was nervous about the performance going in because some of his members were home sick, and others were not feeling well during the day.
However, he said the band came through.
“It was the best performance of the year,” Peters said. “They picked a good time to peak.”
The band scored 81.9 points overall, well above the minimum I-rating score of 68.
“It was kind of interesting because there were a number of bands that actually stuck around to watch us,” Peters said. “We got a standing ovation from the crowd, and not just from Creston kids. I think we were the only one that got that. It was pretty cool.”
Peters said it was a tough day to earn a I.
No 1A band received a I rating, and Creston and Glenwood were the only two 3A bands of their four-band class to receive it. Peters said the panel included two additional judges this year who focused solely on the guard and drumline. Creston scored well in both areas.
Peters said he is thankful for the parents and volunteers who have helped the band throughout the year.
“Many hands make light work,” Peters said. “So many parents would drive the trailer, tape gloves, get kids dressed, get kids from point A to point B, so I could focus on teaching.”
The marching band’s final performance of the season will be at Friday’s home football game. Peters said the band will wear costumes and play a medley of music from “Nightmare Before Christmas.” The band will also perform the school song with a flag routine including some younger students at pregame and halftime. The senior band and color guard members will be recognized during halftime.