The band traveled to Rio Rancho this past weekend to compete in its first-ever Class 6-A state band competition.
This is the first year Deming was reclassified to 6-A – the large school classification – by the New Mexico Activities Association. Previously Deming competed in 4-A.
Under the direction of Bernie Chavez, the Wildcat band received its fourth straight state title – and its first in 6-A.
That makes eight state championships in the past 10 years under Chavez’s direction.
Chavez said the band played three pieces of music: “Ignition” by Todd Stalter, “Dusk” by Steven Bryant and “Old English Folk Song Suite” by Ralph Vaughn Williams.
Chavez said his students work very hard and he wanted them to know that he truly appreciates their hard work and dedication.
Chavez said he also would like to thank the community for its support – especially the parents, his assistant, Sam Villarreal, and Virginia Chavez for the work they do to keep the program going, and the Deming School District.
The band arrived home Sunday at 12:30 a.m. with a police escort welcoming them.
The state championship band will perform May 1st in Anaheim, California.
And the band’s final concert of the year will be May 15th at the
Deming Public Schools Auditorium.
Congratulations to Bernie Chavez and the Wildcat band for bringing home another state championship!