The Hockinson High School musicians had a stellar weekend at the 2019 Columbia Basin College Band Festival.

The HHS Jazz Band placed in the top three bands, regardless of school size and took first in the AA division.

The Wind Ensemble received a gold medal—the highest possible rating—for the AA division.

Outstanding Jazz Soloist awards were presented to Davis Baker, Zeke Dodson, Olivia Gaines, Erik Hawkins, Briell King and Tanner Linton.

Finally, for the second year in a row—and fifth time since 2009—HHS won the Outstanding Music Department award for achieving the highest combined jazz and concert band score in the AA division. The honor shows that HHS band students shine in multiple genres and styles of music.

“I couldn’t be prouder of this group of students,” said Corey McEnry, director of bands at HHS. “They were professional, polite, and encouraging all around.”