From ISSMA State Solo & Ensemble to IHSCGA Winter Guard and IPA Indoor Percussion, Hamilton Heights musicians delivered an incredible stretch of performances. (Photo provided by Hamilton Heights School Corporation)
Posted By: The Reporter March 4, 2026
Submitted by Hamilton Heights School Corporation
Hamilton Heights High School and Middle School Band students had an outstanding weekend of performances, earning top honors across ISSMA, IHSCGA, and IPA events. The band program is under the leadership of Band Director Mark Snelson and Assistant Band Director Billy Cox.
High school musicians delivered exceptional results at the ISSMA State Solo & Ensemble Contest. Mazie Emmert (Euphonium Solo) earned Silver; Rachel England (Trumpet Solo) received Gold with Distinction; and Kaylee Roberts (Euphonium Solo) also earned Gold with Distinction. The Percussion Ensemble – featuring Nicole Eberhard, Lukas Jackson, Maddy Lustig, Bella McDole, Jack Powell, Kiera Rinas, Connelly Schuster, and Ava Snelson – earned Gold with Distinction as well.
Under the direction of Guy Groves, the Hamilton Heights Middle School Winter Guard earned three consecutive Silver ratings in the IHSCGA circuit, with strong performances at the Zionsville, Brownsburg, and DeKalb contests.
Heights Indoor Percussion (HIP) also turned in impressive results in February IPA competitions, placing third at Noblesville and first at Pendleton Heights.
These photos capture the dedication, artistry, and school spirit the band and guard students bring to every stage and competition. (Photos provided by Hamilton Heights School Corporation)
The season continues with several opportunities to enjoy and support Heights’ student musicians:
- ISSMA Jazz Festival – Kokomo High School, Friday, March 6 – Middle School Jazz Band at 5:50 p.m. and High School Jazz Band at 8:30 p.m.
- IPA Franklin Community Invitational – Saturday, March 7 – HIP performance at 5:46 p.m.
- ISSMA JME Organization Contest – Elwood Jr./Sr. High, Friday, March 13 – 6th Grade Band at 5:25 p.m. and 7th/8th Grade Band at 6:40 p.m.
- IPA Westfield Invitational – Saturday, March 14 – HIP performance at 4:03 p.m.
- IPA State Prelims follow on Saturday, March 21, with State Finals on Saturday, March 28.
Hamilton Heights is proud of the dedication, talent, and teamwork shown by these band and guard students. Their accomplishments reflect the strength of the district’s music program and the commitment of directors, staff, and families who support them.
