After performing their show, “Illumina: Out of Darkness” Oct. 15, the Hamilton Southeastern Royal Command and Guard (RCG) advanced to semi-state after the Indiana State School Music Association (ISSMA) regional competition at Carroll High School. The performance included “Paint it Black” by the Rolling Stones, “Moonlight Sonata” by Beethoven, and “Thus Little Light of Mine” by Whipped Cream and Jimorrow.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to walk off the football field, out of breath, ears ringing and uncontrollable smiling,” freshman Maya Patel said. “The late rehearsals, the rain, sun, sweat and blood, the all-day Saturday practices, they all mean something when the crowd erupts into applause at the end.”

Through the summer and fall months, the band practiced daily, battling brutal weather, including pouring rain and sun as they prepared for the state competition.

“I am proud of our students for trusting the process [and] for committing to each other every day by putting forth their best effort in rehearsals,” director Audrey Torres said. “This season has been [a] milestone and massive improvement for the program.”

The ISSMA State Finals will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium where the top 20 ensembles within the Class A division will perform for state title.

“It’s one more shot,” Patel said. “One more chance to show them what we have in us.”