Marion, Arkansas – The Marching Giants, a talented ensemble of students from grades 7-12, are gearing up for an exciting performance at the Indiana State Fair’s Band Day on August 1. The competition is the final event of the CITSA circuit, where bands from across the state compete for the prestigious title. For the Marching Giants, this marks their sixth consecutive appearance, adding to their impressive legacy in the event.
This year, the Marching Giants will take the stage with a new show titled “Milkshakes and Heartbreaks,” a lively and nostalgic performance that promises to captivate audiences. The show brings together the timeless music of Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis Presley, and Olivia Newton-John, offering a unique mix of rock ‘n’ roll and classic pop. “Join in on the fun as the band takes you to the 26th Street Diner!” says the band’s director. The performance will surely evoke feelings of joy and nostalgia, transporting the audience back to an era of catchy tunes and unforgettable energy.
The intricate arrangements that bring this show to life were made possible by a talented team of artists. The music was arranged by Tim Kovarik, while the percussion was expertly arranged by Zach Brumfield. The drill, designed by Eric Thornbury, adds a visually striking layer to the performance, and Katelyn Stutzman’s work on the color guard promises to elevate the show with her creative design.
If you’re planning to visit the Indiana State Fair this year, Band Day is a perfect opportunity to catch some thrilling performances. The Marching Giants are scheduled to compete in the preliminary round at 3:33 p.m. at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis. The preliminary round kicks off at 9 a.m., with Marion High School being the final band to perform. The anticipation will only build as the day progresses, with awards for the prelims set to be announced at 4 p.m.
From there, the top 16 bands will return in the evening to compete in the finals for the State Championship, which begins at 8 p.m. The competition promises to be fierce, and the Marching Giants are hoping to make another mark in this exciting event. Their performance in the finals will be one to watch, as the Giants have had a strong history at the State Fair Band Day.
The Marching Giants’ upcoming appearance marks their 21st overall at the event. In 2024, the band made it to the finals for the fourth consecutive year, and they are eager to continue their success. Historically, the Giants were a regular presence at Band Day, reaching the finals six times and earning the coveted title of Runner-Up in 1968 and State Champion in 1969. Their legacy continues to thrive, and their determination to perform at the highest level remains unwavering.
For fans of the Giants, the State Fair Band Day offers an excellent opportunity to show their support. The band’s director is hopeful that the Giant Nation will come out in full force to cheer on their talented performers. “We’d love to see the Giant Nation out to support our Marching Giants at this year’s State Fair!” is a rallying call for fans to join in the excitement and witness this year’s performance.
Tickets for the event are available online, with options for both the preliminary round and the final round. Fair tickets, as well as parking passes, are also on sale, with an early bird discount available through July 31. For more information, including ticket prices and other event details, you can visit the official Indiana State Fair website at indianastatefair.com.
With a proud history and an exciting future ahead, the Marching Giants are poised to deliver another memorable performance at this year’s State Fair Band Day. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the world of marching band, the event is sure to be a highlight of the fair, showcasing the immense talent and dedication of these young musicians.
