Bands start contest season at Archway Classic

The top six bands in the 2022 Archway Classic are the same top six bands from 2021 — with a few flip-flops in placement.
Anderson finished first with “Twisted Kilts,” featuring the music of Danny Elfman, including “Alice’s Theme,” “Tales from the Crypt” and “Beetlejuice.” In 2021, Anderson finished sixth, which is where 2021 Archway Classic winner Muncie Central ended up Saturday with its show, “The Road Home.”
Likewise, Wayne County’s top two finishers this year flip-flopped their finishes from 2021. Centerville, fifth in 2021, was fourth with “Safe,” in which the would-be robbers (otherwise known as the color guard) might crack the vault but they can’t get away from the police (otherwise known as the band).
And Northeastern, fourth in 2021, was fifth with “What will your verse be?” The show follows the storyline of the film, “Dead Poets Society,” by challenging individuals to Carpe Diem (Seize the day) and develop their own story.
In a repeat of 2021, Jay County was second with “A Bright Idea!,” play upon the American Industrial Revolution, and Winchester was third with “Cherish,” which explores the winter holiday season, right down to illuminated Christmas trees.
The Archway Classic was the first Central Indiana Track Show Association (CITSA) competition of the season leading up to Indiana State Fair Band Day, which is Aug. 5.
This is Anderson’s second Archway Classic title win, previously finishing first in 2019.
Two other Wayne County marching bands competed in Saturday’s Archway Classic. Richmond finished seventh with its show, “Superstars!” and Lincoln finished 14th with its show, “Nautical Nonsense.” Hagerstown didn’t compete in the event.
Richmond’s show features modern music such as “Applause” by Lady Gaga and “Dying in L.A.” by Panic! At the Disco re-written for a marching band.
Lincoln’s show features beachy favorites like “Hawaii Five-O” and the “SpongeBob SquarePants” theme to bring seaside silliness to Indiana.
Regional favorite Union County finished 13th with “Step,” featuring the music of Antonin Dvorak.