Utica Community Schools Bands Raised Scholarship Funds
Four high school marching bands performed at Swinehart Field to support the Louis Gonda Memorial Music Scholarship.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Philanthropy
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Marching bands from four Utica Community Schools high schools performed at Swinehart Field on October 11. The event raised money for the Louis Gonda Memorial Music Scholarship, which provides funding for private music lessons and music camps.
Why it matters
The event supports local student music education by financing specialized instruction and camps. By generating scholarship funds, the initiative ensures that participants can access advanced music resources beyond their standard curriculum.
Four high school marching bands participated in the event at Swinehart Field. Proceeds from the showcase support the Louis Gonda Memorial Music Scholarship fund.
The players
Utica Community Schools
This public school district operates the high schools that provided the four marching bands for the performance.
Louis Gonda Memorial Music Scholarship
This scholarship fund provides financial support for private music lessons and camps for local students.
The details
Students from Utica, Eisenhower, Henry Ford II, and Stevenson High Schools presented themed programs including The Magic of John Williams and Piano Men. Performers utilized color guard flags and costumes to enhance their musical sets during the exhibition.
Timeline
Band-A-Rama took place at Swinehart Field on Oct. 11, 2026.
The participating bands are scheduled for the MSBOA District 16 Marching Festival on Oct. 13, 2026.
The MSBOA District 16 Marching Festival continues on Oct. 14, 2026.
Market Landscape
Local school music programs often utilize exhibition events to refine their routines before competing in regional circuits. This performance serves as a preparatory showcase ahead of the Michigan School Band & Orchestra Association District 16 Marching Festival.
Residents can contribute to the growth of local arts by supporting future music scholarship initiatives. The event provides an opportunity for community members to observe the programs that will compete in upcoming district festivals.
The takeaway
Supporting high school music programs through scholarship funds helps remove financial barriers for students seeking private instruction. Attending local performances allows families to engage with school arts initiatives while contributing to educational success.
What happens next
The bands will perform at the Michigan School Band & Orchestra Association District 16 Marching Festival on Oct. 13 and Oct. 14, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to support student development at Utica Philanthropy.
More information
For more information on school programs, visit the Utica Community Schools district website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by West Bloomfield Beacon.
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