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Wow. CTJ with 17 tubas? I'm excited to see their show. Someone commented earlier that Bowie isn't what they used to be. That's too bad...because they've won BOA Austin in the past and in 2014 came in 2nd at BOA San Antonio. I think everybody forgets about them. Last year every single director had quit-they had no directors in place when they began 2016-and they still managed to win BOA McAllen and do pretty well at Grand Nats. Not as good as previous years but they held their own considering the circumstances. I would love to see them rebound from that after finally a year of stability. Their music this year is insanely difficult. Their guard is exceptional-state champions consecutively. Put all of that together and here's hoping for the comeback of the year!

I couldn't agree more about Bowie. They are not mentioned much but I actually saw their show at area and was blown away. They added a lot since Plano. I also heard from a band parent their incredible story this year. Every one of their directors left last year- the kids were crushed and they actually didn't have directors until August. In July the kids banned together and made plans to start summer band on their own. They since hired great directors including one they had years prior who had left. This is a very determined group of kids and they are amazing!

I think it's important to note some of the top 5 bands from last night are not done with their shows. It is not impossible to see everything change drastically in a matter of weeks.

I agree. Bowie's marching is very clean and their music is so balanced and played as if they were sitting in a concert hall. I hope they win the whole thing. It's about time!

They post videos after marching season is over. No money to be made there.

No that's not the order. That's not even performance order.

I saw Bowie. The music and marching are so difficult... lots of movement. Their sound is unbelievable. Saw them at BOA and was impressed then...UIL last week and they were even better. I'm not sure how they managed to do it but today they were simply breathtaking. I'm really rooting for them and CTJ!

I agree about Bowie. Someone earlier said that they were one of the most consistent bands in the state. Year after year they have been right there. I figured this year would be no different...they would have a great show but probably fall short to Hebron or Marcus. And then I saw their show. I have seen the BOA Austin regional and most recently UIL. I'm going to go out on a limb and say this is their year. Long overdue.

Austin just had their annual Band Jamboree last night where all of the Austin bands perform their shows. All I can say is that Bowie gave me chills. I was there to see Anderson's show but I'm glad we stayed to see Bowie. I had heard their show was IT. I felt like I was watching a DCI group, but with more finesse. Incredible. I am familiar with Bell, Marcus, and Hebron. This is a level beyond those great programs.

I agree about Hebron. They are amazing. The Woodlands won GNs so it will be interesting to see their show. I'm sure a state title could be theirs for the taking. I have also heard Bowie is amazing this year. They have always been in the running and on a steady climb to the top. Last year they beat LD Bell and Marcus at BOA San Antonio. This might be their year. It's just fun that we have so many great programs in Texas!

Exciting two days in the dome. I think the finals will have some surprises. I really am looking forward to seeing Hebron's show. I have also heard James Bowie has added a bunch of stuff to their show since the last competition in early October. I saw it then, so I can't imagine how it could get even better. For those that haven't seen it, get ready for some goose bumps!

I saw both Bowie and CTJ at BOA Austin and they were both amazing. And this was weeks ago. I can only imagine how their shows have cleaned up. Bowie didn't sound weak at all, as mentioned in an earlier post. On the contrary they were as strong as last year with a more difficult marching show. I've heard they have an even larger band this year so that might be adding to their sound. Westlake Marching Festival was last weekend and apparently the rain held off through the day until Bowie played their finals performance. Apparently they nailed it, even in the rain. This might be their year, although Marcus' Charmed show is spectacular! BOASA is going to be fun!