James River Regiment places first at Hermitage Classic

The James River High School Regiment won its first competition of the season, placing first overall in the Class AAAA division at the 25th Annual Hermitage Classic Band Festival on Sept. 24. In addition, the Regiment's percussion also placed first, winning Best Percussion in their division.

The judges evaluate the competing bands on music execution, marching execution and overall effectiveness. Music rating is based on musicianship, difficulty and performance. Marching is based on difficulty, execution and poise. Effectiveness is judged on the effectiveness of the musical program performance, showmanship and coordination of the various elements of the band.

This year the Regiment performs the show “Undercover Melodies,” which includes songs from Mission Impossible, the Pink Panther, and James Bond.
Band director, Keith Cottrill, said, “I am so proud of my students! What an awesome way to start our 2011 Marching Season! They have worked very hard and have dedicated a great deal of time to perfecting the show. We will take the judge’s comments from this weekend and continue to improve. We will get right back to work this week to prepare for our next competition at Warhill High School on October first.”

The Regiment's next competition is Saturday, Oct. 1at Warhill High School in Williamsburg, Va. The Regiment will also perform with all Chesterfield County high school marching bands, Monday, Oct. 3 at Monacan High School at 6:30 p.m.

The James River Regiment has been a Virginia Honor Band, the highest honor bestowed by the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors Association, for the past 17 years. It is one of only three high schools in Virginia that has held the Honor Band status for every year of its existence.