FAIRFIELD – The 21st annual Field Band Finals for marching bands, sponsored by the Maine Band Directors Association, was held on Oct. 23 at Lawrence High School’s Keyes Field. A cold but enthusiastic audience saw the performances of 13 high school bands from central and southern Maine and New Hampshire. Participating were Biddeford, Dover, N.H., Edward Little, Lawrence, Leavitt, Lewiston, Marshwood, Old Orchard Beach, Portsmouth, Sanford, South Portland, Wells and Westbrook.

During their performance, each band was evaluated and received star ratings (from one to four) in the areas of drum major, color guard, visual, percussion, music and general effect. Each band also received overall medal rating of merit, bronze, silver or gold. Lawrence High School received a medal of merit award, with two star ratings in the areas of drum major, music and general effect.

Bands receiving bronze medals were Edward Little, Lewiston, Marshwood, Sanford and Wells. All five received three stars in the evaluated area of drum major. Lewiston High School received three stars for percussion and Marshwood High School received three stars for color guard.

Bands receiving silver medals were Biddeford, Dover, Leavitt, Old Orchard Beach, Portsmouth and Westbrook. Leavitt High School received four stars for drum major. Westbrook High School received four stars for visual. Biddeford High School received four stars for color guard and percussion. Portsmouth High School received four stars for percussion, music and general effect.

South Portland High School was the only band awarded a gold medal in the 2004 finals and received four stars in all evaluative areas.

Other activities sponsored by the association are the Maine Open Jazz Festival to be held at South Portland High School on March 5, 2005; the Maine Winter Guard and Percussion Extravaganza at Marshwood High School on March 19, 2005; the Concert Band Festival at Scarborough High School on April 8 and 9, 2005; and the Chamber Music Festival in April.

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