On Oct. 26, the Burbank High School Bulldog Band advanced to the UIL Area H Marching Band Finals at D.W. Rutledge Stadium in Judson ISD. This marks the first time that an SAISD band program advanced to the Area finals since the event changed its format more than 19 years ago.  

After the preliminary round, Burbank placed ninth out of 22 bands. The top 10 bands marched again Saturday evening for a different panel of judges. In the finals, Burbank ranked one spot higher at eighth place. The top four bands advanced to the state competition.

Burbank was one of six SAISD marching band programs to compete in the Area event. Earlier, on Oct. 19, Brackenridge, Burbank, Edison, Highlands, Jefferson and Lanier high schools earned a First Division rating at the UIL Region 29 Marching Evaluation held at Northside ISD’s Farris Stadium. This rating allowed them to advance to the Oct. 26 round of UIL marching competition. 

“This is the most bands the District has had advance in over 31 years,” said Dr. Daniel Loudenback, SAISD executive director for Fine Arts.

In 2018, five SAISD high schools earned a First Division, and in 2017 and 2016 four high schools received the honor.

The five other SAISD marching band programs placed well in the preliminary round at Oct. 26 Area competition. Jefferson placed 15th, Highlands placed 16th, Brackenridge placed 18th, Edison placed 19th, and Lanier placed 21st.

“Congratulations to all the SAISD bands who advanced and competed at the 2019 UIL Area H Marching Contest!” said Dr. Peter Acosta, Fine Arts instrumental music coordinator. "Thank you to the directors, staff and students for all of your hard work and dedication."