STHS Percussion Section Wins Top Honor Twice

 Strom Thurmond High School Rebel Regiment Percussion Section won “High” – the best score given to a music section at two band competitions, the Swamp Classic Band Competition and most recently, Tournament of Bands, held at Blythewood High School on October 15. In addition, the Percussion Section won “Overall Percussion” for the 2A class and received the highest score for all 1A and 2A schools. The STHS Rebel Regiment as a whole won second place in the 2A class on October 15, performing against many highly competitive schools.

Band member Chunya Heflin commented, “The thought of getting second place and best percussion twice is surreal.” STHS Band Director Justin Craig explains the competition the Rebel Regiment is against. “There were several bands in our class that have won state titles in the last 5–6 years or who have consistently finished in the state finals,” comment Craig. Craig went on to commend his Rebel Regiment, saying, “They’re a class act. Regardless of whether they are successful in competition, the band members conduct themselves professionally, are humble, and continue to work hard.”

Craig smiles when asked about the Percussion section. “They are a unique group,” he says. “Of the eleven members of the section, only four are trained percussionists. The other members actually play other instruments. But they all are good musicians. They have what it takes to made the transition to percussion and play the music well.” Olivia Bedenbaugh, a member of the Percussion section, adds, “This year’s percussion section is special because most members play multiple instruments; however, we all come together to pulse as one unified group.” Fellow percussion member Emilee Ammons said, “We play different instruments, but we are all one family in the pit.”

The STHS Rebel Regiment Band competed in the Lower State Championship in North Charleston on October 22 and finished second.  On Saturday October 29^th The Rebel Regiment will compete for the 2016 SCBDA 2A State Championship at 2:45 p.m. at Spring Valley High School. With its track record of first place and second place, the odds are good that the Rebel Regiment, with its twice winning Percussion Section, will prove itself once again in competition. Rebel Regiment member Ayshia Bush said, “No matter what we place, there is always room for improvement. When we stay humble, we put on a great performance.”

All Rebel Regiment fans, parents and alumni are invited to attend.