More than 10 bands will tune their instruments, polish and press
their uniforms and head to Hollister for the First Annual San
Benito Invitational Band Festival this Saturday, May 1.
More than 10 bands will tune their instruments, polish and press their uniforms and head to Hollister for the First Annual San Benito Invitational Band Festival this Saturday, May 1.
Schools from as far away as Vallejo and Stockton will bring their best to San Benito High School and fill the air with music this weekend in hopes of bringing home a victory. The SBHS Scarlet Regiment Band will begin the all-day competition marching through downtown Hollister performing “Ravenswood,” and leading the parade category. Since SBHS is hosting the event, they won’t be able to compete, but they’ll still be scored on their performance.a
“This being our first one, it’s very exciting,” said Music Director Jim Zuniga. “I have been getting calls from people who graduated from SBHS in the ’80s saying I can’t believe you guys are having a festival, and it really reminds me of when I was in school, too.”
More than 30 parents, 40 students and volunteer organizations on campus are volunteering their time to make sure the event is a success. The planning has been going on behind the scenes for about a year, Zuniga said. Throughout the day, bands will perform in three categories: parade, concert and jazz.
Zuniga said community members are excited about the schools and music coming to town.
“I’ve had people in the neighborhood who come out to watch us practice say they’re so excited that the festival is happening here in Hollister,” he said.
Tuba player Shane Park is looking forward to this weekend and said the festival gives the city a chance to see what the Scarlet Regiment is all about.
“Not only is it a great way for the community to learn more about what a band review is, but it’s a chance for them to see us perform,” he said.
Daniel Malko, who has been playing the alto saxophone and other instruments for seven years, said the festival is a great thing for the band.
“The festival will bring people here, which means personal funds for our band,” he said.
The parade portion of the competition will kick off at 10 a.m. throughout downtown Hollister, and will be followed by the concert venue starting at 11:00 a.m. in Mattson Gym and the jazz venue at 11:55 a.m. in the SBHS cafeteria. For more information, contact Jim Zuniga at 637-5831, ext. 211.
