Around 1,000 students and thousands of spectators will gather at the Perry High School this weekend for the largest solo and ensemble contest in the Midwest.
The 33rd annual Perry Band Olympics takes place Saturday. Perry Band Director Brandon Weeks says he and his students have been preparing for the event for the last several weeks. He says it’s not only a learning experience for the kids in terms of music but also a chance to show off Perry and raise some money.
In addition to charging an entry fee, Weeks says they fundraise through concession sales but the entire community inevitably benefits from the event.
“We would love if everybody stayed in the building and spent money at our concession stand but of course that doesn’t happen. With 1,000 students, you’re talking at least 2,000 parents. I mean if you look in the building that day, down the hallway, all you’ll see is just a sea of people.”
The Band Olympics takes place from 8am until 4:30pm and all community members are welcome to spectate.