When Joe Wayne Reynolds marched with the Quitman Proud Blue Band at the state marching contest in 1986, he had no idea that 40 years later his son would have the same opportunity.
Joe Wayne, a 1990 Quitman High School graduate, was an eighth grader when the band last qualified for state. Now, his son Evan will march with the band Wednesday, Nov. 4, at the Alamodome in San Antonio, exactly 40 years after his father’s trip.
Joe Wayne still remembers the excitement of traveling to Austin with his classmates to compete under the direction of Neal Sutton.
“I recall the excitement for the opportunity to march in Austin that year in front of a packed stadium, the pageantry and the sense of pride and accomplishment,” Reynolds said.
He also remembers the bus ride with friends and the experience of competing at the highest level, memories that have stayed with him for four decades.
Earlier this season, Joe Wayne talked with current band director Michael Barron about how special it would be if Quitman returned to state on the 40th anniversary of its last appearance, especially with Evan, the youngest of his three children, in the band.
“We both agreed that it would be an incredible turn of events if it happened that way and now to see it realized and happening is pretty special,” Joe Wayne said.
For Evan, hearing Quitman’s name announced among the state qualifiers at Saturday’s area competition was a moment he won’t soon forget.
“I was overwhelmed with joy, shock, surprise, pride, and a sense of accomplishment. The pause of silence between calling the place and calling the band felt as if it was years long, but well worth the wait,” Evan Reynolds said.
Evan said the band has faced its share of challenges this season, including absences, illnesses and injuries. He credits Barron’s encouragement and the students’ determination with helping them reach their goal.
He said the band’s bond has also played a big part in its success.
“We all help each other out as much as we can with choreography, drill, and music and it shows when we perform that we are all into getting better each and every run,” Reynolds said.
Joe Wayne said he has enjoyed watching Evan grow through the band program since seventh grade. As a parent, he said, he sees more than students learning music and marching formations.
He sees lessons in discipline, work ethic, teamwork, accountability and leadership.
“I am beyond proud that Evan has been involved with the QHS band program since 6th grade and loves the challenge and community that Mr. Barron and his staff have created with these kids,” Reynolds said.
When Evan takes the field in San Antonio, Joe Wayne hopes he and his bandmates will be proud of what they have accomplished and the community they represent.
Evan said being part of the first Quitman band to reach state in 40 years means a great deal to him, particularly knowing his father was part of the last group to make the trip.
“Everything we have done has led us to this moment and it is very honorable to be able to do it exactly 40 years later with the same goal in mind, ‘Do Your Job,’” Evan said.
For Joe Wayne, it will be another state marching contest to remember, but this time he’ll be watching from the stands.