JHS Marching Band to host Fall Festival of Bands Saturday
JHS Marching Band to host Fall Festival of Bands Saturday
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The Jamestown High School Marching Band will host its 47th annual Fall Festival of Bands starting at noon Saturday, Sept. 26, at Strider Field.
The JHS Marching Band will perform its 2026 show "Paint It Black."
"This year’s show is a dramatic, western-inspired show that tells the story of outlaws in a lawless frontier through powerful music and visual storytelling," said Ethan Thompson, JHS Marching Band director. "The students have truly embraced the theme, and we’re excited to bring the performance to life throughout the season."
The Fall Festival of Bands is the JHS Marching Band's most significant annual fundraiser. In addition to Jamestown, bands performing this year are the Eisenhower High School, General McLane High School, McDowell High School, Harbor Creek, Union City Area High School, Seneca High School, and Erie High School.
Throughout the fall, the marching band will once again perform at home football games and travel to several competitions within the Lakeshore Marching Band Association across Erie County, Pa., and Western New York.
Tickets for the Fall Festival of Bands on Sept. 26 are $8 dollars for adults; $6 for students and seniors over 65. Doors will open at 11 a.m. Tickets for admission can be purchased at the door.
Thompson is in his first year leading the marching band. A native of Wayne, N.J., Thompson was part of the Wayne Hills Patriot Marching Band in high school before pursuing a career in music education at the State University at Fredonia. After teaching elementary music for one year back in New Jersey, a friend shared with him the opening in Jamestown. With support from the Jamestown Public Schools Board of Education and the community, the role was expanded into a full-time hybrid position combining classroom teaching with leadership of the marching band program.
Thompson said in August that he is grateful for the welcome he has received from Jamestown’s students, families, alumni, volunteers, staff, and community members.
“My goal is to build on the strong foundation that's already here while helping our students reach their full potential,” Thompson said. “I want every student to leave this program with unforgettable memories, lasting friendships, and the confidence that comes from working hard toward a common goal. If we can develop great people first, I truly believe great musical success will follow. I'm incredibly excited for the future of the Jamestown Marching Band, and I can't wait to see what we accomplish together this season.”