The article was published in The Circleville Herald and was written by Britany Greenwalt and Miles Layton (September 7, 2024 | Updated September 9, 2024)
CHILLICOTHE — Pickaway-Ross Career & Technology Center came alive with music of eight home school marching bands, as they competed in the 16th annual Pickaway-Ross Battle of the Bands.
The yearly event, held Friday at Main campus, brought together students, staff, and families for an exciting morning filled with competition and school spirit.
After a close round of voting by Pickaway-Ross students, Chillicothe High School successfully defended their title, earning back-to-back wins in 2023 and 2024. Unioto High School, champions in 2021 and 2022, came in second for the second consecutive year.
Westfall High School secured a third place finish with a strong showing. Last year, the Mustangs placed sixth at Battle fo the Bands.
“I am very proud of the hard work that our students have put in so far this season! They have shown tremendous improvement in the short time that I have been with them since I came to Westfall in the fall of 2023,” said Mustangs’ Marching Band Director Hayden Biedenharn.
The event kicked off with the presentation of the trophy and plaque to last year’s champion, Chillicothe High School, for their 2023 win. By showing off their talents, eight competing bands sought to impress both their peers to earn the right to be called this year’s champion.
“As we celebrate our 50th year of career-technical education at Pickaway-Ross, we were thrilled to host eight of our talented partner district bands and hundreds of community guests who came to watch,” said Superintendent Jonathan Davis. “This event is so incredibly special for our students, who are usually in their home school colors and get to show off their home school pride. At the same time, it has become a great competition for the local bands!”
Westfall’s band played some familiar songs for Mustangs’ fans at Battle of the Bands.
“For the Battle of the Bands, we performed our drum cadences, Fight Song, and Party Rock Anthem arranged by Paul Murtha and percussion by Will Rapp,” Biedenharn said.
The Battle of the Bands has become a signature event for Pickaway-Ross, offering students from the career center’s partner districts a chance to showcase their musical talent in a friendly competition. Pickaway-Ross students played a key role, voting for their favorite performances and ultimately deciding the winners.
The event continues to foster a sense of community pride and collaboration, making it a cherished tradition for all involved.
“Yes, I had a great time! This is one of my favorite events every year! I am very proud of how the band performed and am excited to see their accomplishments this season,” said Senior Field Commander Mitchell Ruff.
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The Circleville Herald: Pickaway-Ross Career & Technology Center hosts 16th annual Battle of the Bands