ST. GEORGE—Davis County schools had a good showing at the Red Rock State Band competition in St. George Nov. 4 and also competed in Bands of America (BOA), a national contest against other schools in surrounding states.

Davis High finished second in the 6A division at state and took second place overall in the BOA competition. Farmington High finished in fourth place at state in the 6A division and ninth in BOA. Viewmont also competed in state, taking 13th place in the 5A division.

“We have continued to improve our show,” said Davis High Marching Band Director Michael Crookston. “Our theme is ‘Crescendo to the End,’ a musical nod.”

In some of the shows we placed fifth in state, he said. “We continue to get better and make changes in production to make sure the show is something we’re content with. We’re in a very competitive division. At BOA we were close to winning the whole thing.”

During the BOA performance, the band had a technical sound problem that caused a delay. “It’s something you always worry about,” said Crookston. “But we continue to learn and get better. It’s tough for the kids because they’re sitting out there as instruments get cold wondering what’s going on.”

They learn what a live show is, he said. “There are variables that you don’t know about. If you respond with a clear mind you will be rewarded for it.”

The band has 154 members on the field, Crookston said. “That’s about on par with last year. Six years ago we had well over 200 but we lost some when Farmington High opened. That’s what it has historically been but this is a healthy size group.”