Blue Devil Band Bound for State
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Members of the Water Valley High School Band proudly display their trophies after earning Superior ratings in all four categories at the state marching evaluation Oct. 13 in Grenada.
GRENADA – The All Superior distinction means the Blue Devil Band earned the highest possible rating in every evaluated category: overall band, drum major, percussion and color guard. For band director Wes Brown, the accomplishment represents years of building a program and developing young musicians who are now setting their sights on an even bigger stage, the state championship Oct. 24.
Brown came to Water Valley in 2021, launching a period of rebuilding for the band program. This year’s seniors were seventh-graders when he arrived, making them the last graduating class whose band experience began before his tenure. Brown said the students have grown together musically and personally, with several developing into leaders who now help guide younger members of the band.
Brown said the decision to pursue a state championship berth came from the students themselves.
Two years ago, the band earned an All Superior rating that would have qualified it for the state competition, but Brown had not entered the program for championship consideration.
This year was different.
The students wanted the opportunity to compete, and their parents supported the additional commitment of time and money.
Brown said he agreed because the challenge would encourage the students to hold themselves to a higher standard.
That commitment paid off Oct. 13 when the band performed its seven-minute show, “Fiesta,” before the judges in Grenada.
Members of the Water Valley High School Band percussion section are (from left) Knox Golson, Zamarion McCollins, Kearra Kizer, Bentley Lewallen, Jade McMullen and Donovan Walton. The percussion section earned a Superior rating at the state marching evaluation Oct. 13 in Grenada.
The performance features three musical selections built around a festive Spanish-inspired theme, including a duet during “Mi Amor” and a lively finale.
Brown said he could sense during the performance that his students were delivering something special.
“This might be it. This might be it,” he recalled telling his wife, Kelly, as the band moved toward its final number.
A few minutes later, the judges confirmed what he had hoped.
The band had swept the marching evaluations with Superior ratings from all three judges.
The achievement was particularly meaningful for a program that has relied on a relatively small group of seniors and a large number of younger musicians this year.
Brown credited the students’ growing confidence and willingness to take responsibility for their own performances. In recent weeks, he has placed greater emphasis on student-led sectional rehearsals, allowing musicians to work together and address areas needing improvement.
Brown had strong praise for the band’s four seniors, who have helped lead a group that includes a large number of younger musicians.
Members of the Water Valley High School Band color guard are (from left) Susan Schoyer, Julianna Myers, Gracie Hartlein, Jamyia Benson, Joslyn Hammond and Arieyunna Hawkins. The color guard also earned a Superior rating at the state marching evaluation.
Cohen Hart has emerged as a leader in the low brass section. Brown described him as a talented musician and leader who takes his responsibilities seriously but never places himself above his fellow band members. Instead, Hart works alongside them, encouraging others and helping the entire section improve.
Drum major Jordin Wier has undergone one of the most remarkable transformations. Brown recalled a quiet musician who has developed into a commanding presence on the podium. Wier has earned Superior ratings for her performances as drum major, reflecting the confidence and leadership she has developed.
Destiny Terrelle leads in a quieter way. Brown described her as someone who avoids the spotlight but consistently sets an example through her preparation, dedication and willingness to do whatever is needed. He said she demonstrates that leadership does not always require a title or a commanding voice.
Color guard captain Gracie Hartlein has also stepped into a demanding leadership role, following former captain Amari Gooch, who graduated last year. Brown praised Hartlein for keeping her teammates informed, helping them learn their routines and making certain the group is prepared. He said her initiative and attention to detail have made her an important part of the band’s success.
The program has also benefited from a substantial donation from Lucia Holloway earlier this year, which helped provide uniforms, color guard equipment, marching arrangements and instructional resources.
Brown said the additional resources have given the students opportunities that might otherwise have been beyond the program’s reach.
The band is under Brown’s direction with assistance from his wife, Kelly Brown, a teacher at Davidson Elementary School. The color guard is directed by Jackie Egdorf.
For Brown, the lessons learned through marching band extend well beyond music.
He wants his students to understand the value of hard work, perseverance and attention to detail, qualities he believes will serve them long after they graduate.
The band is scheduled to perform at 1:45 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, at Brandon High School. Brown encouraged the community to turn out and support the students.
