Tyrone placed first of three bands at the Tournament of Bands Competition at Johnstown on Saturday, October 12 with a score of 85.83.

The band’s score was its best of the season so far.

Tyrone senior marching band performer Emily Detwiler was also awarded the Outstanding Performer Award.

Detwiler, who is a senior this year, has enjoyed her time in band and hopes that other students will take advantage of the opportunity.

“I didn’t think that I would have as many friends I have today. I didn’t think I would have as many memories that I would have,” said Detwiler, ” I am very sad that this is my senior year.”

The band’s talent and energy this year has even impressed their bus driver, Lisa Shaffer.

“I love the band; the enthusiasm, the singing, and just how [the band] supports each other. [they’re] always well behaved and making sure that the bus is clean and spotless when they get off,” said  Shaffer, who has chauffeured the band for all of the competitions.

Participation in band has been getting smaller across the region. Last year Wilbur High School had one of the biggest bands at the competitions, but they are now down to about 20 members. Tyrone had over 100 some members years ago.  This year they have 38, but that number is up from last year and they are hoping to grow even more next year.

“[Band] really helps with academics because it exercises so many parts of your brain, as a result, those parts of the brain work harder at school,” said parent chaperone Vanya Davis.

Next week on the 19th the band will be going back to Johnstown for the Chapter Championships. On the 26th the band will be going to Harrisburg for their championship competition.