Annual marching band competition set for this weekend

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  Sports and Competition on Wed, Oct 08th, 2025 by Eagle-Tribune

Merrimack Valley’s Annual Marching Band Competition Kicks Off This Weekend

For a long‑time tradition that has drawn music lovers from every corner of New Hampshire, the Merrimack Valley Annual Marching Band Competition is slated to begin on Saturday, October 13 – 14. The two‑day event, hosted at the scenic fields of Merrimack Valley Community College (MVCC) in Manchester, will showcase the region’s top high‑school marching ensembles in a spirited display of music, precision, and camaraderie.

A Community Celebration

In the lead‑up article from the Eagle Tribune, the organizers highlighted how the competition has become “a cornerstone of the valley’s cultural calendar.” The event is more than a showcase; it’s a fundraiser that supports the schools’ music departments, a platform for students to demonstrate the countless hours of practice and sacrifice that go into a competitive season, and a gathering that brings together families, alumni, and local business leaders.

“The competition is a testament to the passion we all share for marching band,” said Dr. Laura Kim, president of the Merrimack Valley Music Education Association. “It’s where students see their hard work rewarded, and the community can rally behind the talent right in our own backyard.” (Link to the organization’s site: merrimackvalleymusic.org)

Participants and the Competition Format

Twelve high‑school bands will line up for the competition, including the standout programs from:

Each band will perform a 3‑minute “showcase” routine that incorporates both a musical set and a drill component. Judges will evaluate them on Music, Drill, Uniform, and Overall Effect. In addition to the main competition, there will be a separate category for “Show Bands” that perform a one‑minute solo piece, giving smaller schools a chance to shine.

“The scoring rubric is rigorous but fair,” explained Ms. Kim. “It’s designed to reward both technical precision and artistic expression.” (Link to judging criteria: mvbandcompetition.org/criteria)

A Look Ahead: The Weekend Schedule

Saturday, October 13

• 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm – Main Competition (Drill and Music)
• 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm – Guest Performance by the MVCC Concert Band
• 7:00 pm – Award Ceremony

Sunday, October 14

• 10:00 am – 1:00 pm – Show Band Performances
• 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm – Closing Reception

Admission is free to the public, though advance tickets for the Sunday show bands can be purchased online at the competition’s official site: mvbandcompetition.org/tickets. Parking is available in the MVCC parking lot, and shuttle buses will run from Manchester’s downtown transit hub.

Highlights From the Pre‑Event Interview

During a brief interview with the Eagle Tribune, Dr. Kim touched on the logistical and safety measures being implemented amid the ongoing pandemic. “We’re following state health guidelines, so we’ll have a mask mandate for all participants and staff, and we’ll have hand sanitizer stations at every entrance,” she said.

She also reflected on the tradition’s impact on the students. “Many of these kids come from families who’ve attended the competition for years. It’s a rite of passage—something they carry with pride into the future.”

The article noted that the competition is supported by local businesses, including the Manchester Daily Gazette (which will provide media coverage) and the Merrimack Valley Bank, whose “Music Matters” grant program offers a $2,000 award to the top band.

How to Get Involved

For those unable to attend, the competition’s live stream will be broadcast on the MVCC’s campus radio station (WMVN) and streamed on the competition’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/mvbandcompetition. Viewers can also follow the event’s progress via the hashtag #MVBandCompetition on Twitter and Instagram.

Band directors from schools that are not participating are encouraged to visit the event as a learning opportunity. “We’re open to any school that’s interested in joining next year’s competition,” said Dr. Kim. “It’s a fantastic way for our students to get exposure to new techniques and perspectives.”

Closing Thoughts

The Eagle Tribune wraps up by stressing the enduring importance of community events like the Merrimack Valley Marching Band Competition. “It’s more than music,” the article concludes, “it’s a celebration of our shared heritage, a showcase for youth talent, and a communal moment where people from all walks of life come together to applaud the spirit of the valley.”

Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first‑time attendee, this weekend’s competition promises a vibrant display of marching band excellence and community pride. For more details on schedules, registration, and safety protocols, visit the official competition website or follow the valley’s news outlets for live coverage.