High school bands from all over East Texas ventured Monday to Meredith Memorial Stadium to compete and entertain each other, their traveling supporters and a few who are fans of the arts of marching, drumming, twirling and music-making ensembles.

Of the twenty-one bands, including locals Alba-Golden and Quitman, ten qualified for finals, marching a second time in the evening to settle the score and claim some large hardware.

North Lamar came away with the big prize, though they didn't stick around for the results, as they were onto another competition the next morning. Reigning UIL champions of the traditional style, Lindale, claimed the top spot.

Those that  stuck around were treated to an exhibition performance by the hometown hosts, the Sound of the Swarm, of their 2022 set, "The Show Must Go On." The crowd-pleasing, foot-stomping presentation is nearly ready to be put to the test for UIL judging, as 3A bands head to region contests Tuesday in Mt. Pleasant.