Marian Catholic High School will host more than 900 high school musicians Saturday as part of an annual Catholic high school band competition.
Called, “The State of the Art,” the 30th annual contest is being held at Marian for the second straight year. Twenty bands from 13 high schools will be playing. Each band will be performing two selections. Judges will grade the bands on nine elements of musical performance.
“Since its inception, it has brought a large number of high school bands together to share what we do,” Marian band director Greg Bimm said. “Being in a Catholic school is a bit different than being in a public school. We have a kinship.”
In addition to Marian, high schools participating in the event are Brother Rice, Mother McAuley, Fenwick, De La Salle, St. Laurence, Queen of Peace, Nazareth, Loyola, St. Rita, St. Viator, Providence and Guerin.
Performances begin at 8:50 a.m. and will run throughout the day. The competition will culminate with an awards ceremony at 6:30 p.m. Bishop Joseph N. Perry is the guest speaker.
Admission is $6 for adults and $5 for senior citizens and elementary school students. Parking is free.
BAND JAM
What: “The State of the Art” Catholic high school band contest
When: Performances begin at 8:50 a.m. Awards ceremony is at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Marian Catholic High School, 700 Ashland Ave., Chicago Heights
Admission: $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and elementary school students. Parking is free.
Distributed via Chicago Press Release Services