60th Annual Fairmont Band Spectacular brings in bands from across region

FAIRMONT, W.Va. (WBOY) — Seven high school bands, as well as Fairmont State University’s band, participated in the Fairmont Senior Polar Bear Band Spectacular on Saturday evening.

Celebrating its 60th anniversary, the spectacular welcomed bands from schools across the area, including University High school, Grafton High School and South Harrison High school. Each band was able to perform an exhibition as they look forward to the competition season, providing students with the opportunity to celebrate their achievements within their band programs.

In addition to the performances, former band directors were honored for their dedication to Fairmont Senior band, and anyone in the crowd who had performed at past spectaculars were also recognized.

Chris Sharps, the social media coordinator for Fairmont Senior High School Polar Bear Band, spoke with 12 News about how the Spectacular does more than give locals bands a stage.

“We have multiple band spectaculars in the area, they serve as cornerstone fundraising events for the bands. It is our largest fundraising event of the year, we always appreciate all the support that parents, family members, come out and show for each of the band spectaculars,” Sharps said.

The Fairmont Senior Polar Bear Band will also be performing in showcases at Morgantown High School and University High School.