The 60th annual Selma Rotary Band Festival and Field Tournament took place on Saturday, October 25, bringing together school marching bands from across the Central Valley
The parade was held in downtown Selma, where families gathered to watch community floats, school representatives, and marching bands.
The Selma Rotary parade commenced with Selma High School stepping off at 8:45 a.m. and concluded at 11:40 a.m. The field show competition was held later in the day at Staley Stadium on the Selma High School campus. In competition results, Selma High School’s Black Bear Brigade placed second in the parade segment (Class 2A) and first in the field show segment (Class 3A). Also sweeping top scores in all field show caption categories: Performance, General Effect, Percussion, and Auxiliary.
Mr. Lima, head band director at Selma High, mentioned that the day involved multiple performances and a demanding schedule.
“A normal competition day usually includes one performance and more downtime,” he said. This event included up to four performances and a recruitment event with ALMS band students. Mr. Lima noted a key moment from the day was the time spent with ALMS students, a combined drumline exhibition between ALMS and SHS.
“The ALMS students were energetic and engaged,” he said. “The drumline exhibition was a collaborative performance between the middle and high school groups.”
A classification issue occurred during the field show competition. Selma High’s band was initially scheduled to compete in the 2A class, but with 68 performers, the band actually qualified for the 3A class. After the performance, the judging panel notified staff of a potential 10-point penalty for competing in the incorrect class. Selma High directors submitted a protest, citing accurate registration data and requesting reclassification. The band was then moved to class 3A, where they secured first place.
Student participants also reflected on the day’s events. Senior percussionist Giada Flores commented on the significance of performing for the last time.
“Being able to do it for the last time made the experience more meaningful but also ten times more upsetting,” she said. Flores also emphasized the deeper meaning of her involvement.
“Band isn’t just about playing music, but about the passion we show through our talents. That’s why I love it so much.”
Junior color guard member Jai Orosco highlighted the opportunity to interact with the middle school students.
“Behind the scenes stood out because I got to hang out with middle schoolers and got to hear what they thought about high school and even made some friendships with incoming eighth graders,” Orosco said.
Reflecting on the parade, Orosco shared what it felt like to perform in the parade again.
“It felt nice to perform for the parade since I’ve been doing it since I was in seventh grade,” Orosco shared. “Seeing kids knowing they get to grow up with the experience of seeing people perform in parades.”
By bringing together outstanding performances and the community’s support, the Selma Band Review displayed the band’s dedication and skills.
