Students from Presidio High School’s Blue Devil Band delivered strong performances at the recent Solo and Ensemble competition in Monahans, earning multiple top ratings and advancing one group to the state level.
The event brought together student musicians from across the region to compete in individual and group performances. Members of the percussion ensemble from Presidio Independent School District earned a Division I rating and qualified for state competition. Ensemble members included Jose “Pepe” Bustamante, Victor Carrasco, Taro Gutierrez, Ricardo Hernandez, Andres Mata, and Roberto Calderon.
Several students also received high marks in solo categories.
In Class 1 solos, Jan Gallegos (flute) and Ricardo Hernandez (tuba) earned Division I ratings, while Fernando Valdez (tuba) received a Division II rating.
In Class 2, Lilianna Chapa and Aiden Samaniego (saxophone) and Kesara Olivas (French horn) earned Division I ratings. Isael Gamboa (trombone) received a Division II rating.
Class 3 performers also posted strong results. Division I ratings were awarded to Luisa Padilla and Azucena Lopez (clarinet), Gabriela Hinojos (flute), Khloe Olivas (baritone), Roberto Calderon (trumpet), and Lucia Valles (snare drum). Jayden Soto and Alexis Grado received Division II ratings in snare drum.
Band directors and school officials praised the students for their preparation and commitment, noting that the results reflect continued growth in Presidio’s music program.
The competition was held in Monahans and is part of the regional pathway leading to state-level performance opportunities for outstanding student musicians.
