After tackling a seemingly insurmountable amount of adversity, the marching band returned home with sparkling silver medals in hand. The band’s show, entitled iGeneration, was born from a concept of droids taking over human life and includes vocals and narration to emphasize a world riddled with technology.

The show placed second behind North Lamar High School in the Alamodome on Nov. 7 at the 4A State Marching Band Contest but not without a fight. In the past, small details like the weather have gone in the band’s favor, but this year the band had to overcome many obstacles to claim their second place title.

“Things did not come together like they normally do,” Argyle band parent Terra Lyon said. “Because of a crash involving the equipment trailer, the band was unsure if they would even have uniforms for the show.”

The band also had to battle the rain in rehearsals before entering the Alamodome, and once performing, the LED light boards, used for visual aid during the show, malfunctioned. Although the band received a lower raw score, which normally would have given them the state champion title, North Lamar High School received three 1’s, the highest possible ranking from three judges, resulting in their automatic victory. All bands were gracious in victory and defeat and North Lamar High School’s band director even told Kathy Johnson, the head director of the Argyle Band, a primary reason for their win was the high standard that the Eagles have set for all bands in Texas.

“This was the experience of a lifetime, and it’s really crazy because we were able to get second in the state out of over 100 bands,” junior Lizzie Dagg said. “The feeling that you get when you’re in the dome about to walk on the field is indescribable, and the echo of the drum-line as we make our field entrance gives you chills.”

During summer break, the band put in ten and a half hours a day for weeks before school started and eight hours a week leading up to the state competition, learning drill and choreography for the show.

“After we placed second in area, we began having voluntary sectionals at mega lunch, after school, and on the weekend, as well, so we have put quite a lot of hours into this,” Dagg said.

Band members recount memories from their state journey that will stick with them forever.

“When we got second, I was disappointed,” junior and drum-line section leader Gabriella Cate said. “But then Mr. Lemish came over to me and gave me a hug and told me about the things that I had to be proud of from the season. That really helped me see the good in the season and realize how amazing second place is and how proud of my band I am.”

From the collective season and the experience of competing at the state level together, band members created bonds to last a lifetime.

“I can’t look at this amazing group of kids who have worked as hard as they have and think I’ve lost anything. I’ve seen so many of them grow and mature and laugh and make so many memories, and that’s really what this is all about,” senior Maddison Darnell said. “We may not have gotten gold, but I still feel like a winner when I look at my section.”

The band’s experience at the state competition also allowed growth individually and as a team.

“It’s not about being first; it’s about being the best Argyle we can be,” senior drum major Erin Riley said. “There was a lot of hate from other bands towards us, but we held our heads high no matter what, and it really showed our bands’ character.”

Support from the Argyle community played a key role in Argyle’s coveted state title.

“I think the memory that will stay with me forever is when the crowd started cheering at the end of our show because the dome makes every sound ring, and the crowd’s cheers just showed me how our music can move people on an emotional level,” Riley said. “It gave me chills and will definitely be something I won’t forget.” 

The six time state champion band will continue working hard to continue the legacy laid before them.

“I think that the future for the Argyle band is very bright,” Dagg said. “The results of the competition are going to drive future generations to work even harder than we did to go for the gold once again.”

Gallery • 3 Photos

©The Talon News | GiGi Robertson

The color guard performs in the show 'IGeneration' at the finals of the UIL State Band competition at the Alamodome in San Antonio, TX. (GiGi Robertson/The Talon News)