Multiple awards and honors have been granted to the band program, including a “Superior” rating at the state marching band competition and 15 students being accepted into All-State Band and Orchestra.

The marching band competed at state Oct. 18. “Bands need to score a 68 out 100, and Johnston received a 84.7,” band director Jeff Robilliard said. “The band made consistent growth throughout the season that ended with two great performances at Waukee.”

When the awards were called out, the seniors were able to go accept it. “It was a different experience because all the seniors got to go out on the field when they called awards,” senior Sarah Eikenberry said. “It was cool being so close.”

The marching band won many other awards as well. “We also won color guard caption, drum major, and grand champions,” Eikenberry said.

The band has also done very well in relation to the All-State Band and Orchestra. “We had 33 students audition for the All-State Band and Orchestra and had 15 students accepted,” band director Pat Kearney said. “The 15 accepted represents one of the three highest totals from any school in the state.

Marching band season ended with their success at Waukee. They are beginning their concert band portion now. All-State will be held at the Hilton Coliseum on Nov. 22.