With more than 200 students reporting for Band Camp this summer, the Stillwater High School Pioneer Marching Band will put what may be the largest marching band in school history on Pioneer Field for its first community performance of the season Thursday, Aug. 6, at 8 p.m.
The performance will mark the public debut of "Celestial Lights," the band's 2026 competition show, as well as the program's first season based in the new Stillwater High School, where the performing arts classroom wing will serve as home for class and instructional time. Concerts will continue to take place in the Performing Arts Center near the site of the former high school building.
"There have been some challenges moving into the new classroom space while preparing for camp, but we feel fortunate to have the larger and more modern instruction space for our students to learn and develop," said Kevin Zamborsky, Stillwater Public Schools director of bands. "I appreciate our students, parents and directors for their patience and hard work helping us move into the space to be ready for camp and the start of the school year."
Pioneer Marching Band members walk into the new Stillwater High School (left), rehearse in the new large band room (center) and attend Drill School in the Presentation Room (right) during Band Camp. – Photos courtesy of Stillwater Band Boosters.
"Celestial Lights" features music by Ryan George, Eric Whitacre and John Mackey, and is designed visually to evoke the northern lights.
"We hope to see a large crowd supporting our students at the August community performance, as well as throughout the season," Zamborsky said. "I am excited to see the show progress throughout the year and watch our students grow from week to week."
ADVERTISEMENT
Buying or refinancing in Stillwater? Brittney, Misty and Angelica at the Oklahoma Community Credit Union bring local expertise and competitive rates to every home loan. And unlike many lenders, your loan stays right here — local.
The band will add music and elements to the show throughout the season, performing at halftime of Stillwater High School football games and at marching contests hosted by Deer Creek High School and Union High School. The marching season concludes with a full run of the show Oct. 30 at Pioneer Stadium, followed by the 2026 Oklahoma Bandmasters Association State Championships on Oct. 31 at Broken Arrow High School.
The band earned bronze medal honors in Class 6A-2 at last year's state championships and was again named state academic champion — the 12th time in program history.
The Pioneer Marching Band will also march in the OSU Homecoming Parade in October and the Downtown Stillwater Parade of Lights in December.
The band is under the direction of Zamborsky, Tricia Bailey-Bovenschen, Megan Perkins, Katie Genevro, Sean Gartner and color guard director Veronica Brewer. More information is available at stillwaterbands.org.
PAID ADVERTISEMENT
Don't toss that Krazy Daze receipt. Every purchase through July 31 is an entry toward one of five $500 American Airlines gift cards, and Krazy Daze week purchases count double.
Members Discussion