Ten schools and nearly 1,000 students from across Iowa will descend upon Perry this Saturday to take part in the 34th annual Perry Band Olympics.

Perry High School Band Director Brad Sparks says the event has put Perry on the proverbial map, as it’s one of the biggest contests ahead of the state solo and ensemble competitions this spring. There will be a total of 17 centers around the school, each dedicated to a particular instrument or ensemble group. Students, including those from Perry, will compete for the best judges scores. Participants will be divided into one of two groups, the first for 9th and 10th grade, and the second for 11th and 12th grade. The top five scores for each instrument and ensemble in the two groups will be recognized during the awards program.

The Perry Band Olympics will start at 7 a.m. Saturday, with events running throughout the day until the awards ceremony at 5 p.m. The event is open to the public, with tickets costing $3 per person, and concessions will be available. All proceeds from ticket and food sales will support the Perry High School Instrumental Music Department.