Band members competed in the UIL All-Region auditions Nov. 12 at Amarillo High School.

Around 70 students auditioned and 46 made the Symphonic or Concert All-Region Band with five students making alternate.

“As far as the whole day goes, there were some sections I thought maybe some of the players just didn’t get their best day,” band director Mike Sheffield said. “And there were some sections where they very much did get their best day and dominated.”

Sheffield said expectations have gone up for those who qualified for Pre-Area auditions.

“They’re taking lessons, but they also have to come and play for me twice before they go,” Sheffield said.

The next step for qualifiers is the Pre-Area audition after Thanksgiving and the Area audition after Christmas.

“I’m hoping for really excellent performances from the students, and I know they are too,” Sheffield said. “I just really want them to get their best performance and the emphasis is on preparation, but also on not folding in the crunch.”