State Marching Band Championships

media release: More than 35 high school bands from across the state will march on the UW-Whitewater campus Saturday, October 18 for the 40th annual Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA) State Marching Band Championships at Forrest Perkins Stadium, starting at 11:50 a.m. Click here for schedule.

“We are excited to celebrate our 40th annual WSMA State Marching Band Championships with the outstanding youth musicians and educators who make this event possible. For four decades, this state level showcase of music, creativity and dedication has brought communities together and highlighted the many opportunities that marching band provides for students,” said Laurie Fellenz, WSMA executive director.

The WSMA State Marching Band Championships are divided into four entry classes (A, AA, AAA and AAAA) determined by total school enrollment.  Each band is allowed on the field a maximum of 13 minutes (including entry, performance and exit). A panel of eight judges evaluates bands in six areas: music performance, visual performance, music general effect, visual general effect,  percussion and color guard. Bands receive verbal commentary recorded in real time during their performance.  Bands may compete competitively or as judged exhibition (groups receive a score but it is not announced or factored into rankings.) In each competitive class, “A” through “AAAA,” awards for Best Percussion, Best Musical Presentation, Best Visual Presentation and Best Color Guard are presented, in addition to division awards and the top three awards in each class.

Family, friends and community members are invited to attend the 2025 WSMA State Marching Band Championships.  Tickets $17 online ($22 at gate) for adults; $9 online ($11 at gate) for students 18 and under, senior citizens and undergraduate college students with valid college ID.  Children five and under, free admission. For more information, including post-event results, visit wsmamusic.org.