The Starkville High School Band continued it superior performing tradition at the Mississippi State Band Festival.  The band received superior ratings from all nine judges in marching, concert and sightreading, which earned SHS the Sweepstakes Award.  The award was established last year to recognize bands who all superior ratings in every category from every judge.

"The band works hard to continue to grow musically, both in marching and concert," said SHS Band Director Shawn Sullivan.  "I am very proud of the students and the hard work they have put into the program."  The senior band members are the first class to complete four years of marching and concert under the direction of Sullivan, who is in his fourth year at SHS.