News Detail

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. (NOVEMBER 5, 2024) — The Williamsport Area High School Marching Millionaires won the Cavalcade of Bands American Class Championships on Saturday, Nov. 2, at New Oxford High School.

The championship contest is the culminating event after 10 weeks of competition for the band, like a fall sports schedule. Held over two days, 92 bands competed in five classes for top honors.

There were 18 bands in American Class between A and Open divisions. The Marching Millionaires achieved the highest score, and not only earned the champion title but also won awards for Best Music, Best Visual Performance, Best Overall Effect, Best Percussion and Best Color Guard.

This year’s championship is the eighth in Marching Millionaires history, adding to the state championships won in 1979, 1981, 1982, 1984, 1987, 1989 and 2022.

Marching band students begin technique practice each spring and continue through the summer, learning music, marching and choreography for their show. The band performed over 20 times this fall at competitions, football games, parades and other events.

“Sustained success at this level is a testament to our students who ‘trust the process’ every day, committing themselves to a vision developed by our passionate and dedicated instructional team,” said WAHS Band Director Ryan Bulgarelli. “The Marching Millionaires embody a legacy of excellence that has placed our district and community at the forefront of Pennsylvania’s competitive marching band landscape for over 60 years. Our deepest appreciation goes to the WASD administration, school board, teachers, support staff, parents and community members, whose unwavering support makes such achievements possible. It’s great to be a Marching Millionaire!”

The competitive marching band is a part of the WAHS music department and runs like a varsity sport. Band students have the option to join.

“Winning the state title reflects the strong community we’ve built together,” said senior trumpet player Robert Leiter. “In our band, everyone plays a role — no one is left on the sidelines. Over my four years as a Marching Millionaire, it’s been incredibly special to see how we’ve come together to become part of something bigger than ourselves.”

“This season has been filled with incredible and unforgettable moments,” said sophomore clarinet player Ava Girton. “From band camp to evening practices, football games and competitions, we’ve grown together as a family. I’m proud of everyone who has been part of our journey this year. Winning the state championship is the result of months of hard work and dedication to our shared mission. I am so proud to be a Marching Millionaire!”

For two decades, the WASD has been nationally recognized as a Best Communities for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation. At WAHS, there are about 150 band, 150 orchestra and 200 choir students who can participate not only in the Marching Millionaires but also three orchestras, three bands, five choirs, and select groups like GQ, Les Chanteuses, Strolling Strings, and Big Band (Jazz).

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