Canyon View High School Marching Band Strikes Gold with 3A State Championship Victory

The Canyon View High School marching band has soared to new heights, clinching their first-ever 3A state championship title at the Utah Music Educators Association’s Red Rocks State Marching Band Championships held on Friday in St. George.

 

Competing against over 40 high school bands statewide, the Falcons delivered a standout performance, earning a score of 67.05 points. This achievement placed them ahead of Carbon High School, which scored 66.75, and Delta High School, which secured 63.838 points.

 

The competition took place at Utah Tech University’s Greater Zion Stadium, a venue that resonated with the powerful sounds of dedicated young musicians from across the state.

 

Under the direction of Will Zeller, the 56-member band showcased their talent through a performance titled 'Thor's Hammer', composed by Randall Standridge. The show paid homage to Norse mythology, featuring movements inspired by Mjolnir, lightning, Odin and his crows, and a battle against the frost giants.

 

In addition to their overall victory, the Falcons received accolades for outstanding visual and musical performance. Zeller highlighted the band's commitment to refining their marching technique and incorporating visual elements that enhanced their musical presentation.

 

Key contributors to this successful season included color guard coaches Aimee Carnesecca and Marie Morgan, band technicians Bridger Saunders, Hannah Meeker, Skyler Schwebach, and Maggie Lovell, as well as drum major Gabriela Sanchez.

 

Reflecting on the season, Zeller expressed immense pride in the collective effort of students, parents, volunteers, student leaders, and school staff. He emphasized the band's growth, noting their dedication to raising personal standards and supporting one another throughout the journey.

 

Upon returning to Cedar City late Saturday night, the victorious band members were honored with a celebratory firetruck procession through downtown, culminating at Canyon View High School. This triumphant return was a fitting tribute to their hard-earned success and a moment of pride for the entire community.