The Farmersville High School Marching Band advanced to State, celebrating a school history-making finish of 13th out of over 200 4A classification bands and a first time advancement to the UIL State Marching Contest in the 4A Class. The marching band is in the top five percent of 4A bands in Texas. Courtesy FHS

The Farmersville High School Marching Band has etched its name in history, earning 13th place out of over 200 Class 4A high school bands during the UIL State Marching Contest at the Alamodome in San Antonio on Wednesday, Nov. 13.

Competing for the first time in the 4A division, the “The Thrill of the Ville,” as the band is affectionately known, delivered a performance to remember, marking a proud moment for FHS and the community. 

Directed by Scott Cross and featuring a team of approximately 100 performers, including percussion and colorguard, the band showcased their 2024 production titled “Aurora.”

The show’s musical and visual elements were inspired by the Aurora Borealis, or northern lights, said Cross, and were brought to life through months of hard work and dedication.

“I am super proud of the kids this year,” Cross said. “They have worked so hard and spent countless hours practicing to get to the state level. Seeing their effort and passion come together on such a grand stage was incredible.”

The Farmersville band’s success wouldn’t have been possible without its broader support system, said Cross. Junior high band students, affectionately referred to as the “band crew,” played a crucial role in ensuring smooth performances by managing props and equipment.

“Their contribution as ‘roadies’ is critical to our success,” he said.  

The journey to State was no small feat. Farmersville began the season with five invitational contests, achieving two first-place and two second-place finishes. The band then earned a first-division rating at the UIL Region 25 Marching Contest, advancing them to the Area C competition in Lindale. Out of 39 bands at Area, the marching band placed fifth, earning a coveted spot among the top seven bands that advanced to state. 

Though Cross said Farmersville had competed at the state level twice before in Class 3A—winning a silver medal in 2017—this year marked their debut in the larger and more competitive 4A division.

The historic 13th-place finish at State put them in the top 5% of all 4A marching bands in Texas, a stellar accomplishment for a school of their size. 

Kayla Cross, the band’s color guard instructor, praised the students for their dedication and artistry.

 “These kids really brought this beautiful show to life, and we couldn’t be more proud,” she said. “With such an incredibly broad range of schools and band programs in the 4A division, this is a pretty awesome win. The legacy of this group will inspire future generations.” 

“Thank you to the seniors who laid the foundation for our 4A state success … your legacy will endure as the Fightin’ Farmers march on,” said band staff.

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