14 bands compete in regional event

The 30th annual Buckeye Classic took place at Tanks Memorial Stadium at Ironton High School Saturday night and 14 bands took part in the competition.

Jeff Sanders, the band director for the school, said the event is open to any high school and that invitations went out to schools in southern Ohio, northern Kentucky and West Virginia.

He said the school organizes the event, in conjunction with the band boosters, and that trophies are awarded to winners of four classes, based on school size.

Between Ironton High and the 13 guest schools, more than 800 musicians took part in the event, Sanders said.

A constant stream of musicians could be seen throughout the night, crossing the street from the bus area with instruments and props in preparation to take the filed.

Schools are judged for music, marching, general effect, percussion and auxiliary, Sanders said.

Awards are given to each class for percussion, color guard, marching, music percussion and overall performance, Sanders said.

“We’ve had a wide range of bands and performances, he said, noting the mix of songs chosen. “We’ve had Beatles music, classical music by Brahms and original music composed directly for the bands.”

The event, which drew a packed audience, is quite an undertaking for the volunteers.

“We’re already planning tonight for next year,” Sanders said.

Sponsors for the trophies were Rax, Central hardware and Furniture, Awards Plus, Carla’s creative Services, Lambert Law office, Scherer Mountain Insurance, AAA Driving School and Cyndi’s Studio.