Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is proud to officially unveil the 2026 Fall Regional schedule, marking the beginning of another exciting and competitive marching season across the state of Florida. The 2026 Regional series will bring together student performers, educators, and communities at multiple host sites, providing bands with valuable performance opportunities and a pathway toward the FMBC State Championships. Each event is designed to support educational growth, competitive excellence, and an enhanced experience for both performers and audiences. The confirmed 2026 Fall Regional dates and host sites are as follows: October 3 – Charles W. Flanagan High School October 10 – John I. Leonard High School, Wiregrass Ranch High School, Lehigh High School October 17 – West Port High School, East Lake High School, Vero Beach High School, Venice High School October 24 – Tarpon Springs High School October 31 – Jupiter High School November 7 – Park Vista High School November 14 – FMBC State Championships These regionals serve as a critical part of the FMBC season, offering ensembles the opportunity to refine their performances, receive adjudicated feedback, and build momentum heading into the championship phase. Each event represents an opportunity for students to grow, perform at a high level, and be part of a statewide community that values excellence in music education and the marching arts.” Additional details regarding event logistics, registration, and performance information will be available at FMBCSTATE.com in the coming days. Participating programs are encouraged to complete registration early to secure their preferred event dates. FMBC looks forward to welcoming bands from across Florida for an incredible 2026 season which will conclude again at the Florida International University Pitbull Stadium in Miami. About Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) Florida Marching Band Championships is dedicated to providing high-quality performance opportunities that promote educational growth, community engagement, and excellence within the marching arts. Through regional events and state championships, FMBC supports thousands of student musicians and educators each year.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Florida Marching Band Championships Returns to FIU’s Pitbull Stadium for 2026 State Championships — November 14, 2026 Miami, FL — The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is proud to announce the return of its State Championships to Pitbull Stadium at Florida International University for the 2026 marching season. The event will take place on Saturday, November 14, 2026 , marking a continued partnership with FIU and a commitment to delivering a premier championship experience. Building on the momentum of last year’s highly successful debut at FIU, FMBC is set to deliver an even more dynamic, efficient, and elevated championship experience for students, educators, and audiences alike. Following overwhelming feedback from participants and spectators in 2025, FMBC has spent the offseason refining every aspect of the championship model. From expanded resources and enhanced staffing to improved logistics and streamlined event operations, the organization is committed to raising the standard for marching band events across the state. “Our goal is simple: create the best possible experience for every student, director, and supporter who steps into the stadium,” said Sue Gordon on behalf of the FMBC team. “Returning to FIU allows us to build on a proven foundation while continuing to innovate and improve.” Photo Courtesy of Al Palacio The 2026 FMBC State Championships will once again feature a multi-site preliminary structure, with partner host locations strategically selected across South Florida. These sites—set to be announced in the coming months—will provide accessible, high-quality performance opportunities leading into the State Finals at FIU’s premier stadium venue. Key highlights for the 2026 Championships include: Enhanced performer and staff experience through improved event flow and logistics Expanded operational teams and adjudication support Upgraded audience engagement and in-stadium presentation Continued use of FIU’s world-class facilities to showcase Florida’s top marching ensembles Registration for the 2026 FMBC State Championships will open soon, with additional details regarding preliminary sites, schedules, and event logistics to follow. FMBC remains dedicated to fostering excellence in music education, performance, and community, bringing together thousands of students from across Florida to celebrate the artistry and impact of the marching arts. For more information and updates, visit www.fmbcstate.com or follow FMBC on social media. To stay up-to-date with registration and ticket details, subscribe to our mailing list About FMBC: The Florida Marching Band Championships is Florida’s premier marching band circuit, dedicated to showcasing excellence in musical and visual performance. Since 1998, FMBC has celebrated the talents of thousands of student musicians, providing a platform for growth, achievement, and community through the marching arts. For media inquiries or more information, please contact: media@fmbcstate.com www.fmbcstate.com

At Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC), we are committed to fostering a competitive environment that promotes fairness, growth, and excellence for every ensemble across the state. One of the key ways we ensure this is through our class system, which is based solely on ensemble membership size—not school enrollment. As we prepare for the 2025 season, we are reaffirming our classification model, which places each band into one of five competitive classes based on the total number of performing members. This includes all wind players, percussionists, and auxiliary members who take the field as part of your show. 2025 FMBC Classifications: 1A Class:  1–50 members 2A Class:  51–70 members 3A Class:  71–90 members 4A Class:  91–120 members 5A Class:  121+ members Traditional Class:  Unrestricted This size-based classification system ensures that ensembles are competing against similarly sized programs, allowing for more equitable matchups and meaningful evaluations. FMBC’s class system is designed to celebrate your achievements on a level playing field. Each season, FMBC reviews these ranges to remain aligned with the growth and evolution of programs throughout Florida. Our goal is to continue providing a competitive structure that supports all students, educators, and programs in their pursuit of musical and visual excellence. Stay tuned for more updates as we march toward the 2025 season! Visit FMBCState.com for more information About FMBC The Florida Marching Band Championships is dedicated to celebrating and advancing the marching arts in Florida. Through statewide competitions, FMBC provides high school bands the opportunity to perform, grow, and inspire, while fostering a sense of community and excellence in the art of marching band performance. The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is a leading organization in the marching arts dedicated to the advancement of the marching arts in Florida. With a rich history of promoting musical excellence, FMBC provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent, learn, grow, and inspire others. Media Contact: Eric Levy Director of Education & Marketing eric@fmbcstate.com

FMBC Partners with Florida International University for 2025 State Finals FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MIAMI, FL – May 20, 2025 — The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is thrilled to officially announce that the 2025 State Finals will be hosted at Pitbull Stadium, located on the campus of Florida International University (FIU) in Miami, Florida. After months of preparation, planning, and behind-the-scenes coordination, FMBC has reached a major milestone—securing one of Florida’s most iconic and dynamic venues to serve as the host site for this year’s culminating event. This move reflects our unwavering commitment to providing the best possible experience for our participating students, educators, and supporters across the state. Formerly known as Riccardo Silva Stadium, the venue was renamed Pitbull Stadium in 2024 after global music icon Pitbull—a Miami native—acquired the naming rights. This 20,000-seat stadium serves as the home of FIU Panther Football and has earned recognition as a premier destination for major sporting and entertainment events. With its modern design, professional-grade turf field, and optimal sightlines, Pitbull Stadium offers a high-energy, state-of-the-art environment that matches the intensity and passion of Florida’s marching band performers. FMBC Executive Director Cathy Kersten expressed her excitement about this announcement: "We are beyond excited to bring the FMBC State Championships to Pitbull Stadium in 2025. As we celebrate more than 25 years of hosting championships in Florida, this venue marks a bold step forward in realizing our vision. Our students and directors work tirelessly all season, and they deserve an experience that feels like a true celebration of excellence. Pitbull Stadium provides the perfect setting—one that’s exciting, inspiring, and uniquely reflective of Florida’s culture and spirit.” The FMBC organization is committed to creating an unforgettable championship weekend, with more details—including performance schedules, ticketing, and spectator information—to be released in the coming months. About FMBC: The Florida Marching Band Championships is Florida’s premier marching band circuit, dedicated to showcasing excellence in musical and visual performance. Since 1998, FMBC has celebrated the talents of thousands of student musicians, providing a platform for growth, achievement, and community through the marching arts. For media inquiries or more information, please contact: media@fmbcstate.com www.fmbcstate.com

For Immediate Release Date: November 19, 2024   FMBC 2024 Championships Traditional Class Division Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) would like to address an important matter regarding the scoring process for the Traditional Class division during this year's competition. Due to a miscommunication with the judging panels, FMBC has made a decision to utilize the scores from the Prelims round (excluding the Individual Visual Caption) in combination with the lowest score from each caption within the Finals performances to determine an "Overall Champion" across both performance slots. This approach was implemented to ensure fairness after an oversight in the judging process resulted in a "Double Panel" for Finals, compared to a "Single Panel" for Prelims. In the interest of accommodating and fostering our vibrant traditional band community, we acknowledge this oversight in the distribution of judging panels. Our solution of incorporating the Prelims scores and selectively considering the Finals scores allows us to maintain fairness and competitiveness while continuing to provide an educational and supportive environment for all students involved. Utilizing this format, we would like to formally congratulate Palm Beach Lakes HS on being named the 2024 FMBC Traditional Class Champion ! Palm Beach Lakes HS - 1st Place Overall | 75.95 McArthur HS - 2nd Place Overall | 72.9 Coral Springs HS - 3rd Place Overall | 72.15 FMBC is deeply committed to nurturing the growth of the Traditional Class division. As we move forward, we will engage in collaborative discussions with directors, educators, and board members who bring invaluable experience from both traditional and corps-style backgrounds. Together, we aim to refine our processes and ensure an even more seamless experience for all participants in future events. We extend our gratitude to the band community for your unwavering support of FMBC’s mission. Your understanding and collaboration inspire us to continually improve and celebrate the incredible talents of Florida’s marching band students. Thank you for your support of the FMBC and the students who make it all possible. About FMBC The Florida Marching Band Championships is dedicated to celebrating and advancing the marching arts in Florida. Through statewide competitions, FMBC provides high school bands the opportunity to perform, grow, and inspire, while fostering a sense of community and excellence in the art of marching band performance. The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is a leading organization in the marching arts dedicated to the advancement of the marching arts in Florida. With a rich history of promoting musical excellence, FMBC provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent, learn, grow, and inspire others. For additional information, please contact: Eric Levy Director of Marketing & Education eric@fmbcstate.com

JUPITER, FL – The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is proud to celebrate the incredible performances displayed at the 2024 Florida Championship Finals this past weekend. Bands from across the state showcased their dedication, artistry, and passion for the marching arts, demonstrating what #FloridaMarching and #TeamFlorida are truly all about. We are thrilled to congratulate the Overall Class Champions of the 2024 FMBC Finals: Class 1A Champion : Calvary Christian High School Class 2A Champion : Braden River High School Class 3A Champion : Somerset Academy Class 4A Champion : Seminole High School Class 5A Champion : Fleming Island High School Traditional Class Champion : Palm Beach Lakes High School Each of these bands exemplified excellence and left an indelible mark on the field with their performances. FMBC also extends heartfelt congratulations to every finalist who poured their hearts into this competition. Your hard work, teamwork, and passion have elevated the standard of marching arts in Florida and inspired audiences across the state. For full scores and recaps from the 2024 FMBC State Finals, visit www.fmbcstate.com/2024-scores . About FMBC The Florida Marching Band Championships is dedicated to celebrating and advancing the marching arts in Florida. Through statewide competitions, FMBC provides high school bands the opportunity to perform, grow, and inspire, while fostering a sense of community and excellence in the art of marching band performance. The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is a leading organization in the marching arts dedicated to the advancement of the marching arts in Florida. With a rich history of promoting musical excellence, FMBC provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent, learn, grow, and inspire others. Media Contact: Eric Levy Director of Education & Marketing eric@fmbcstate.com

After a remarkable 2024 season, STRYKE Percussion is gearing up for another exciting year in 2025. STRYKE Wynds, fresh off back-to-back championships at the WGI World Class Championships, are ready to defend their title once more. What is STRYKE Percussion? STRYKE Percussion is a leading indoor drumline group celebrated for its captivating performances, cutting-edge show concepts, and musical precision. Competing at an elite level, STRYKE Percussion offers members a platform to enhance their percussion skills in a dynamic, collaborative setting, pushing their artistic limits and achieving new heights in musical performance. What is STRYKE Wynds? STRYKE Wynds is a top-tier indoor winds ensemble recognized for its excellence in brass and woodwind performance. With a record of consecutive championships at the WGI World Class Championships, STRYKE Wynds delivers powerful, emotive music coupled with complex visual elements and choreography, setting a new standard for indoor wind ensembles. Join the STRYKE Family! Auditioning for STRYKE is more than just a chance to perform—it's an opportunity to become part of a community that thrives on growth, unity, and excellence. By joining STRYKE, you’re not just becoming part of an ensemble; you’re joining a family dedicated to pushing artistic and musical boundaries. Audition Dates: - STRYKE Percussion: September 15th & 29th, 2024 - STRYKE Wynds: October 6th & 20th, 2024 Location: Hialeah Gardens High School Early Bird Special: Register before August 31st to receive a $10 discount! Visit stryke.org for more details and to sign up!   ABOUT FMBC The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is a leading organization in the marching arts dedicated to the advancement of the marching arts in Florida. With a rich history of promoting musical excellence, FMBC provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent, learn, grow, and inspire others.

Creating a structured system of protocols for rehearsals, as well as maintaining the housekeeping and upkeep of a program's facilities, is vital for the success and sustainability of any marching band or musical ensemble. A well-organized rehearsal environment and clean facilities not only enhance the performance quality but also foster a sense of discipline, responsibility, and pride among students and staff. Streamlined Rehearsals: The Key to Efficient Practice Structured protocols for rehearsals are essential in maximizing productivity and ensuring that each session is utilized to its fullest potential. By establishing a consistent routine, students know exactly what is expected of them, which minimizes downtime and confusion. Clear guidelines on punctuality, warm-ups, sectional practices, and full ensemble rehearsals create an environment where focus and efficiency are prioritized. This systematic approach allows directors to spend more time on refining performances and less time on logistical issues, ultimately leading to higher quality performances. While nobody enjoys micromanagement, structure and organization is always a welcomed tool to create success! Moreover, rehearsals with established protocols teach students valuable life skills such as time management, discipline, and teamwork. These skills are not only crucial for their musical development but also for their personal growth and future endeavors. A structured rehearsal environment promotes a culture of respect and professionalism, where each member understands their role and contributes to the collective goal. Facility Maintenance: A Reflection of Program Excellence The physical environment in which a marching band and any musical ensemble operates is equally important. Maintaining clean and well-organized facilities reflects the pride and dedication of the program. Establishing protocols for housekeeping ensures that practice areas, instrument storage rooms, and rehearsal spaces are kept in top condition. This not only preserves the longevity of equipment and instruments but also creates a positive and motivating atmosphere for students. Regular upkeep of facilities involves assigning specific tasks to students, staff, and in many cases parents, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility. Whether it's ensuring that rehearsal spaces are free of clutter, instruments are properly stored and maintained, or practice fields are kept in good condition, these tasks contribute to a well-functioning program. Clean, well-maintained facilities also provide a safe and comfortable environment, reducing the risk of accidents and damage to valuable equipment. The Bigger Picture: Building a Culture of Excellence Ultimately, establishing protocols for rehearsals and facility upkeep is about building a culture of excellence within the marching band program. When students, parents, staff, and even administration see the importance placed on organization, discipline, and respect for their environment, they internalize these values and carry them into every aspect of the groups performance and create an additional level of respect for the program . This culture of excellence not only improves the immediate outcomes of the program but also instills lasting life skills in its members. In conclusion, the success of a marching band program stands firmly on the establishment of structured protocols for both rehearsals and facility maintenance. These protocols create an efficient, disciplined, and positive environment that enables everyone involved to focus on what truly matters: the pursuit of musical excellence, and vital life skills. By fostering a sense of responsibility and pride, these systems lay the foundation for a thriving program that can achieve its highest potential year after year. ABOUT ERIC LEVY Eric is an avid music educator with a specialization in percussion performance, and music composition. With an extensive background in teaching around the world, Eric has worked with multiple Championship & Finalist programs involved in FMBC, Bands of America, WGI, and other performing organizations. No matter the time of year, you can easily find Eric working on a project or teaching an ensemble while embracing his mission to make sure everyone has the opportunity to experience success as a performer. You can find out more about Eric at www.musicbyericlevy.com ABOUT FMBC The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is a leading organization in the marching arts dedicated to the advancement of the marching arts in Florida. With a rich history of promoting musical excellence, FMBC provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent, learn, grow, and inspire others.

Happy Summer, Marching Band Enthusiasts! We're thrilled to announce a fantastic opportunity to kickstart your season with the 2024 Summer Session, presented by our friends at Ultimate Drill Book (UDB). Join us for an engaging one-day clinic on July 19 at University High School in Orlando, just a day after the FBA summer convention. Register Now What to Expect: No Cost and Lunch Provided: Enjoy a full day of learning and networking without any registration fees, and lunch is on us! Incredible, Interactive Sessions: Gain a wealth of knowledge and practical tips to elevate your program for the season ahead. Network & Connect: Meet other directors, staff, and administration from across the State to share ideas and build your network. Highlights Include: Drill Learning Tips and Tricks: Participate in interactive sessions with UDB experts to enhance your drill teaching techniques. Roundtable Discussions: Engage in meaningful conversations with some of the States most prolific band directors about building legacy programs and teaching fundamentals to today's students—all while enjoying your vacation. FMBC Season Overview: Get a comprehensive look at the upcoming FMBC season and what to expect. Schedule and Registration: 9:30 am | Registration 10:00 am | 4 Ways to Upgrade Your Drill Learning Process 12:15 pm | Building A Legacy Program featuring Dean Calmer, Mara Rose-Bruce, Steve Rivero, and Josh Velez 1:30 pm | Teaching Fundamentals while Enjoying Your Vacation 2:45 pm FMBC Director's Advisory Board Register Now And as a special invitation, join us on July 18th for a "Tee Party" at Top Golf Orlando presented by our sponsors. Come out for this social event and network with others in the FMBC community! Have any questions? Feel free to reach out. And don't forget to invite a friend—we can't wait to see you there! Let's make this summer a time of growth, learning, and preparation for an outstanding marching season ahead. See you in Orlando!   ABOUT FMBC The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is a leading organization in the marching arts dedicated to the advancement of the marching arts in Florida. With a rich history of promoting musical excellence, FMBC provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent, learn, grow, and inspire others.

To view complete schedules please use the link below.

Dear Band enthusiasts, We are 1 week away from the 2023 FMBC State Championships...and I know everyone is excited, and maybe nervous, and maybe even overwhelmed. It's time to believe in the process, and the fabulous band kids across the state...they've got this! Remember: “Genius is 10% inspiration, 90% perspiration.” —Thomas Edison So, keep inspiring, and keep perspiring...it's worth the effort!!! Sincerely, - Cathy 2023 FMBC Championships is right around the corner, and you can begin to purchase your tickets for each event! VIP tickets are now now available as well, and typically set out quickly. Use this link to see each location and get more information --TICKET INFORMATION-- Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to our newly formatted blog & news section to stay up-to-date and informed about events, tips, and other important announcements throughout the year.

The moment we've all been waiting for has arrived! We are thrilled to announce that the schedules for this year's FMBC Championships Prelims are officially LIVE and ready for viewing. Directors and Staff: Now is the time to plan, prepare, and strategize for an incredible day of music and performance. Dive into the schedules to ensure your band's needs and itineraries are ready for the day of competition. Parents and Fans: Get ready to show your support and watch your children and friends shine on the big stage! These schedules are your key to planning your day and making the most of this unforgettable event. CLICK HERE TO SEE SCHEDULES General Admission and VIP Tickets: Secure your seats and be part of the magic. General admission and VIP tickets are now available for purchase via Hometown Ticketing. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to witness the best of the marching arts in action. 🎫 Purchase your tickets here: Hometown Ticketing Mark your calendars, set your alarms, and get ready for a day filled with music, camaraderie, and outstanding performances. About FMBC: The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is a leading organization in the marching arts dedicated to the advancement of the marching arts in Florida. With a rich history of promoting musical excellence, FMBC provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent, learn, grow, and inspire others.