Middle school musicians across the Catalina Foothills School District can take the field alongside the Foothills Falcon Band at a free public event Friday, Oct. 30 at 8 p.m.

The annual Middle School Night at Catalina Foothills High School Stadium gives younger students a chance to perform with the high school marching band, according to a district announcement. Families and community members are welcome to attend at no cost.

The district describes the Falcon Band as the largest high school marching band in Arizona, a distinction it says the program has held for more than two decades. The event page and a separate district band profile differ on the exact span, with one citing more than 25 years and the other more than 20.

Three specialist directors lead the program: Ian Marcusiu on brass, Dr. Tina Walton on percussion and Band Director Renee Shane-Boyd on woodwinds. Shane-Boyd said the program "allows students to develop their musicianship to a high level of excellence that has been recognized at the state and national level while also building strong skills in leadership, problem solving, and critical thinking."

The program is large. It includes four concert bands, jazz band, jazz combo, small ensembles, and colorguard and winterguard units.

Falcon musicians have performed across the country and internationally, including in the 2023 Rose Parade and twice in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, according to the district's band page. The Wind Ensemble has earned "Superior with Distinction" ratings.

Band instruction in the district starts as an after-school activity in fifth grade. Middle school students who choose band as their elective receive instruction during the school day and participate in four evening concerts each year, including one combined performance at CFHS with the marching band.

Middle school students who want to perform at the Oct. 30 event must register in advance. Click here to register.

Catalina Foothills High School also hosts a Future Falcon Open House on Monday, Nov. 16 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. for prospective students and families.