Rehoboth (N. M.) Christian School won the New Mexico State Band Competition on April 20, coming out on top of all the 1A-3A schools in the state. The band, directed by Kevin Zwiers, played three pieces for the competition judges: a march, “Darklands,” by Randall Standridge; a lyrical piece, “Prelude on a German Hymnsong,” by Matt Conaway; and an overture, “Emblazoned,” by Brian Balmages.
Bands must qualify to play for the state championship, which means earning a 1 in the district competition. Rehoboth was one of three New Mexico schools to qualify this year.
The band included 58 students from grades 9-12, many of whom began their musical training during the COVID-19 pandemic. “We started the freshmen (on their band instruments) through Zoom,” Zwiers said.
This was the band’s second competition after COVID. They finished fourth place in 2023. “There was a level of nervous energy, but also a high level of focus at getting an opportunity to play again,” Zwiers said.
Just before the state competition, the band engaged in its biennial tour, visiting several churches and schools over 10 days from April 5-13. The “Be Amazed Tour” visited Wisconsin, Nebraska, Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan.
The band tours every other year, alternating with the Rehoboth school choir. This is the band’s second tour since COVID, and its third state championship since 2016.
About the Author
Callie Feyen is a writer living in Ann Arbor, Mich. She attends First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor. Callie writes news for The Banner and contributes to Coffee+Crumbs, and T.S. Poetry Press. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing and is the author of The Teacher Diaries: Romeo and Juliet, and Twirl: My Life in Stories, Writing, & Clothes.
