On Saturday, Feb. 6, the Trojan band competed in UIL Solo & Ensemble in Victoria. The band came home with 12 first division medals for solos and 14 first division medals in four ensembles.

Seven of the solos and all four of the ensembles qualified for the state UIL competition in late May at the University of Texas in Austin. At the state level of competition, university and college music professors listen and grade soloists or ensembles.

This two-day event is for all of the 4A and 5A schools in Texas, including choir and orchestra performances.

Jaime Vela, head director of the Mighty Trojan Band, said, “We are extremely proud of these young musicians. It takes hours of practice to memorize a difficult solo or to work with other students in an ensemble. The state level is very difficult; however, we have had students come home with state medals before. Great job, everyone, for representing A.C. Jones!”