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INDIANAPOLIS — Young musicians from across the United States will return to Indianapolis for the 2021 Bands of America Grand National Championships.

Ninety-eight high school marching bands from 18 states, including Indiana, will compete Nov. 11 – 13 at Lucas Oil Stadium.

The Bands of America Grand National Championships will feature two days of preliminary competition, evaluated by a panel of music educators and marching band experts.

Up to 38 bands will advance to Saturday’s Semi-Finals; the top 12 scoring bands will move on to Saturday evening’s Finals competition.

Indianapolis band, orchestra, and choir students from several high schools will perform together in a special exhibition as the Indianapolis Public Schools Music Showcase on Thursday. The event will also feature performances by marching bands from Miami University, Murray State University, and Rutgers University.

The three-day event marks the return to live competition for the Bands of America Championships; last year’s event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The enthusiastic return of the bands performing at this championship is a testament to the resilience, dedication, and hard work of these young student musicians, their teachers, school administrators, parents, and families,” says Dr. Jeremy Earnhart, President and CEO of Music for All.

Ticket Information

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online.

  • Individual tickets, preliminaries: $29 for each day
  • Semifinals tickets, general admission: $45
  • Semifinals tickets, reserved seats: $65
  • Finals tickets: Prices vary

Admission for children 10 years old and younger is free. All attendees will be required to have a ticket for entry, including children.