Precision, imagination on tap in Pageant of Bands

Author: Tammy Lane • First Posted: Thursday, October 22, 2009

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Shaun Owens, band director at Bryan Station High, has seen an evolution in marching band performances since the 1970s. "It's become much more theatrical," he says.

Shaun Owens, band director at Bryan Station High, has seen an evolution in marching band performances since the 1970s. "It's become much more theatrical," he says.

Shaun Owens, band director at Bryan Station High, has seen an evolution in marching band performances since the 1970s. "It's become much more theatrical," he says.The marching might no longer be strictly militaristic, but precision and crisp moves are still crucial.After an exhibition featuring their "Matador" routine, members of the Bryan Station High band will serve as hosts at the Bluegrass Pageant of Bands.

When Shaun Owens was in high school in the mid-1970s, most marching bands played three or four catchy tunes and performed in classic military style. These days, competitions are more dance-oriented, and the showcase potentials are wide open.

“It’s become much more theatrical. Now we have all kinds of scene changes, prop changes. Groups try to tell a story. It’s all in music for 10 minutes on a football field,” said Owens, band director at Bryan Station High School. “Bands try to convey a story as best they can. So far, they haven’t exhausted the possibilities of what can be done.”

When nearly a dozen Central Kentucky schools converge Saturday Oct. 24 for the 19th annual Bluegrass Pageant of Bands, anything is possible.

“Those programs are some of the best of the best in the state,” Owens said.

A sellout crowd is expected – Bryan Station’s stadium holds 3,200 – and the awards will include Grand Champion, Best in Class and honors for percussion and color guard performances.

Owens’ group will open with an exhibition featuring its “Matador” routine. After the other high schools compete, the Morehead State band will close out the evening.

“All the kids are all giving of their time, their talent and their energy to make this successful,” said Owens, whose students will serve as hosts after their performance.

If you go
  • Who: A dozen marching bands from Central Kentucky
  • What: Bluegrass Pageant of Bands
  • When: 5 p.m. Saturday Oct. 24; competition schedule
  • Where: Bryan Station High School football field, 201 Eastin Road
  • Admission: $5 at the gate; free for ages 6 and younger
  • More details: www.bryanstationband.org/bpob/BPOB2009.htm

Editor's note: Here are the results, posted after the competition:

Paul Laurence Dunbar High School earned the Grand Champion trophy. Dunbar also won for Best Overall Music, Best Overall Visual, Best Overall Effect and Best in Class for its color guard. Tates Creek High finished third in Class 5A, and Henry Clay was fourth.