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Bearkat Band Advances to State Preliminary Round of TMEA Honor Band


Posted Date: 06/13/2024

Bearkat Band Advances to State Preliminary Round of TMEA Honor Band

The Raymondville Bearkat Band has advanced to the State Preliminary Round of the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) Honor Band competition. This marks the first time in school history that the band has reached this prestigious level. The TMEA Honor Band process is designed to recognize the most exemplary band programs in each classification across Texas.

In addition to this milestone, both the Myra Green Middle School Junior Varsity and Varsity bands, as well as the Raymondville ECHS Junior Varsity and Varsity bands, have advanced to the Area level in the Association of Texas Small School Bands (ATSSB) Outstanding Performance Series (OPS). This advancement includes a total of seven selections progressing to the next level of competition.

The ATSSB Outstanding Performance Series is an esteemed program aimed at annually identifying the most outstanding concert band programs in class 4A and below throughout the state of Texas. UIL selections from participating schools are first judged at the Region level, with top performers advancing to Area, and subsequently, the top Area bands moving forward to the State level.

The Bearkat varsity band recorded their competition piece on May 15 at the TAMUK auditorium, submitting it for both the TMEA and ATSSB competitions. This recording has launched the band into the spotlight of statewide recognition and competition.

"We are immensely proud of our students and their dedication to excellence,” said Head Band Director Ben Keltner. "Advancing to the State Preliminary Round of the TMEA Honor Band and having multiple selections in the ATSSB OPS showcases their remarkable effort, skill, and perseverance This is a historic moment for our band program and our school."

The Bearkat Band’s success in these rigorous competitions highlights the exceptional quality of music education and performance in our community. We look forward to their continued success

Bearkat Band recording