The Pius X band recently won a superior rating at state for only the fourth time since 1984. They also earned 1 ratings at every band competition this season.

Pius X was not able to compete for the state championship last year because of the pandemic.

“Since both the freshman and sophomore classes hadn’t experienced a real competition yet, there seemed to be more excitement and determination to really push for a good season,” senior Emma Earhart said.

Changes were also implemented this season to help the band improve from previous years.

“Mr. Wilhelm really put in a lot more marching exercises,” junior Sean Carney said. “It would really point out who knew when the pages were turning and who didn’t.”

For the seniors, while winning state was very exciting for them, it was also difficult.

“It was the state competition when I realized that would be my last time marching onto Seacrest. It was a bittersweet moment, but also a happy one in the end,” Earhart said.

Band Director Jared Wilhelm was very impressed with where this band has come from.

“My philosophy is that we are always building and always building new floors, not ceilings,” he said. “This band is the product of what other students built before and their own hard work building new floors of their own. I would say this is one of the best marching bands I have taught and they did the bands that came before them proud.”