April 27, 2026, marked the District Band Concert, where phenomenal performances and memories were made for band members across Pleasant Valley.
This year’s show was the largest in history, highlighting the strength of musical programs in the Pleasant Valley School District. From sixth graders to high school ensembles, the performances were consistently impressive.
The night also included the presentation of awards to students who demonstrated outstanding achievements and dedication to the music community.
Senior drum major Nowal Sareini spoke about her most memorable moment of the evening: being honored with the Dave Williams Memorial Scholarship Award.
“I find this to be the most memorable because I’ve put a lot of time, effort, and love into the band program, and this award ties it altogether,” she said. “With that said I never did the things I did for the band because I wanted to win the award or because I wanted recognition, instead, I did it because it made me happy.”
This award is given to the most spirited band member who embodies the program, with band members collectively voting for the recipient. Awards such as the John Phillip Sousa Award, given to senior Oliver Kremer, were also voted on by fellow ensemble members.
Sareini added, “Helping others, leading by example, and making a change in a program that’s been around for years was my goal. District band night did an excellent job of reminding me to always be grateful for everything I have.”
The music was no less impressive than the students who contributed to the spirit of the program. Senior Brandon Thomas shared his thoughts of the performance.
“I thought that our district band performance went well and sounded great, especially because of the better acoustics,” he said.
“It was made even more special because not only was it the last band performance as an individual band, but the last band performance for seniors as well. It was our final representation of what we can do as the PV band class of 2026.”
The largest District Band Concert to date, with roughly 800 band students, was a remarkable sight. The performance of “Freedom Finale” at the end felt especially powerful, reflecting years of hard work from students across the district.
This increase in participation in the band program is seen as a positive development. Thomas shared his perspective on the growth.
“I definitely agree that it is good for more people to join Band because music is for the person playing it just as much as it is for the person playing it,” he said.
“Having many new students join Band helps support the program, and it is how we can give back to those who supported us along the way by showcasing our skills in a way that everyone can enjoy. Having a larger district band means that more people are able to experience that same enjoyment and it’s just further proof that people are satisfied when they join Band.”
The event proved to be worth the wait for both the audience and students. Hardworking staff, members and volunteers contributed to an evening that celebrated community, dedication and the power of music.
