The Hastings Raiders Marching band finished out their 2017 season in grand style with their appearance on Saturday at TCF Bank Stadium. The Youth in Music State Championship was a daylong celebration of the months of work for the 80 member Hastings ensemble. Their preliminary performance that morning garnered them a first place finish in Class A, in a field of 10 bands, the 4th such award in the past 6 years with top caption honors presented to the woodwinds, Colorgard and percussion for their exemplary work. The placement also meant that they would be the sole representatives for the evening Grand Championships with bands from 2, 3 and 4 A classes as well as some collage ensembles. Some larger classes place more than 200 participants on the field for their 15 minute show. Directors Emily Chandler, Thomas Wentzler and Josh Wahlstrom were aided by a large team including Lindsey Wetterhahn, Eddie Starr, Deryck Lawson, Jacob Daniel, Jake Bohlken , parent volunteers, chaparones and many others who made the success of this season possible. More photos and In Depth interviews will be available soon on KDWA and KDWA.com.
