Kingston band qualifies for state concert band contest

DURANT — The Kingston instrumental music program added to its already impressive list of accomplishments this school year when the high school band earned a Superior rating at district contest, qualifying for state competition in April.

The Pride of Texomaland earned straight I’s on the stage as well as in sight-reading at Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association District Concert Band Contest. Head Band Director Lindsay Pfaff credited band members for their efforts in preparation for the competition.

“I think we proved that with hard work, we can reach our goals,” Pfaff said. “If we push ourselves, we can do extremely well as a band.”

The feat not only qualifies the band to compete at the next level, but also keeps alive the students’ hopes of achieving the rare Sweepstakes designation, something that has happened only once in school history. The three components of the Sweepstakes are earning a I in district marching contest, and earning Superior ratings at state concert band contest on the stage and in sight reading.

“It would mean a lot to us, and we’re going to work very hard to achieve it,” Pfaff said. “It’s something that hasn’t happened since 2006, and I want to be the next band director to bring home a Sweepstakes plaque.”

The band is under the guidance of Pfaff and assistant director Jon Dohrer. The musicians are led by seniors Nathan Brown, Brenden Edison, Devin Fox, Lucas Smith, David Standfield, Kassidy White, Olivia White, Laura Wilson and Brandon Wise.