NTxBandMom8

I believe for the area that Wakeland, Centennial and Prosper fall into got easier with realignment, right? I could be wrong but it seems that 2 years ago the competition was more intense.

I've been hearing about this band for years. I saw their first game this year (without full uniform) and it looked and sounded good, but it was hard to compare as Wakeland came out in full uniform / props, etc. I heard a lot of comments that were lackluster, but it's comparing apples to oranges when one band puts part of the full package out there early and the other reserves their full show for later. I will say that they have a vocalist that I particularly liked, and sometimes that can be hit or miss for me. I liked some of the visuals I saw, but I can't help but think that the presentation will pack a powerful punch when polished. Their director was very complimentary to Wakeland on their performance, which was really nice. I think he's got quite the performance to show at a later date, though. I'd love to see them do well. I don't really know their history. Did they have some staff changes recently?

Oh wow! I need to see Prosper in action.

I would NOT rule out Lone Star in Frisco or Prosper HS.

I'm curious, based on the fact that I've seen several DCI groups add drum set in the past few years, what bands have a drum set in their show this year (and at HEB)?

I agree that the LISD bands will likely be top of the heap. I think Coppell may have their rebound this year. I know they had a lot of resistance to the change in staff last year. Same for Wakeland, though they changed shows at the last minute as well with their changeover in staff. How they pulled off as high of placement as they did was surprising. I'd keep my eye on both of these groups. They are hungry. I'm not saying they will topple anyone from the top 1/3, but I'd be surprised if they didn't both make the cut.

Cityscapes....which Liberty HS? I'm assuming you mean the one in Dallas, but there is also one in Frisco.

zvchy, I like your energy. I will watch Hutto. Same for you, Madison Band Man. I love the pride you two have in your groups. Keep posting. I will definitely remember to watch your groups this year and hope for the best! Shoot for the stars!

I'm proud that our band finished 20th when I look what was above and below us. I didn't see anything bad at all. I will say that I think most of the A and AA bands work very hard to go and know they won't likely make finals. I guess just going to BOA SA is a win for most. Amazing shows all around.

I finally got to see FloMo and Leander. NOW I see what you're talking about! Wakeland didn't make finals, but for a band with all new staff except 1 who had been there for 1 year, I think they did awesome. For the older students, it was hard to watch so many of your band directors go to a rival school after a record setting year. Hearing that 3rd in 3A perked them up and gave them a shot in the arm. Of course they wanted to make finals, but seeing the competition, I think everyone is just thrilled to get a mention. Keep in mind that the new director is in his first gig as a top director and they changed shows when he was hired in July. They didn't have all their music for the longest time. I learned a lot watching all of these amazing bands in one place. I feel for LD Bell and some others that were expected to be in the finals but weren't. I'm thrilled for those who are there for the first time. Thanks to everyone for talking me through my first year. I've enjoyed reading everyone's opinion. I'd say this board is spot-on for calling the outcomes. I'm eager to see prelim scores too.

Wakeland did their very best today but isn't in anyone's list. I can see why in some cases but in others I guess my eye just isn't bad refined yet. Pearland was impressive and I loved Rouse as well. It's too bad the competition is so stiff. I've never heard anyone mention these two either. I loved Plano East too but I don't think it was clean enough (Again...my eye is not as discerning yet, and I don't intend that to be rude. At this point it's just my opinion.)

Can someone clarify the difference in the TEA rule vs the UIL rule for me? I know that many bands have times on the calendar with earlier call times and later release times. The 8 hour rule must be the "on the field" time, right?

PESHMom, tell me your thoughts on Wakeland's show. I really like it, but I'm still a newbie. I know what I like and what I think needs improvement, but I'd love to hear another viewpoint.

By Jerry World acoustics sucking, are we talking about the actual stadium or the practice stadium? I'm guessing the practice stadium is too small.

Yes! Well, I honestly had Centennial lower than at least Lone Star. Nice show but difficulty level is lower due to less playing while marching. Wakeland does have a new director because most of the staff left for Coppell. My theory is that the judges opted out of watching finals and went out for dinner. I joke, obviously, but the shows were very different in the 2 rounds but the scoring was not. I don't get it.

I must be thinking incorrectly. Last year I thought there were 10 bands competingband 5 went on. (Competition was in Carrollton.) I know some changes were made, but not that many! Am I thinking of the region 24 competition and not area?

I'm very curious to see the scores too. The preliminary results (placement) was the same as the finals. I didn't understand why some, Wakeland for example, scored behind other bands that just didn't impress me as much musically or visually. Their props were simple but their formations made up for it. This is in the finals especially as they really upped their game there. No arguing over the top 2. I also enjoyed Lone Star's show.