The 56^th Annual Washington High School (Gene Hunt) Marching Band Festival took place on Saturday, October 5. The festival featured a field competition at WHS. There was no parade.

As the hosts, the Pride of Washington Marching Blue Jays gave an exhibition performance. They were not eligible for awards.

There were 16 bands on hand for the event.

The Pride of Washington Marching Blue Jays, under the direction of Gretchen Pohlman, is comprised of students in grades 9-12 and has 110 members this year. They began rehearsing in June and finish their season in November with football playoff games. They travel to local competitions and compete at BOA St. Louis. Their show brings competitive elements to the field as well as interesting music, design, and color guard.

The Blue Jays also are involved in many parades throughout the year. They start the season with the Washington Fair Parade in August. They also march in the WHS Homecoming Parade and the City of Washington’s Christmas Parade held the day after Thanksgiving.

Photos of the Pride of Washington Marching Blue Jays’ performance at the Band Festival are below, courtesy of Jon Bauer.