Chapin High’s seniors and underclassmen of the band program, work hard in and out of school to create incredible performances, and get rewarded with topnotch awards.
Because of the exceptional and talented instructors here to instruct the students here at Chapin High’s band program, Chapin High School has won many high/prestige rewards here in South Carolina. The band is known for being one of the most successful band programs in the state of South Carolina. Chapin high school’s band program received the Outstanding Performance Award, and an award given by the South Carolina Band Director’s Association to programs who have received superior ratings in a myriad of musical performances.
Recently in October, they competed at the BandBEAT Marching Championship at Catawba Ridge High School, and made an incredible feat by placing 2nd in the 2A Division, bringing back a special caption award for Overall General Effect. Also, in late September, they attended the 2025 Low Country Invitational at Wando High School, bringing home big wins including: Invitational Division 3A champions, Best Color Guard, and Outstanding Musical Performance. They are also preparing for upcoming competitions/events. One example is the CWEA Circuit competition, which is for indoor percussion and winter guard.
Some of the band students shared their favorite and best memories of the marching season:
“My most special moment to me this year was when I performed at state and saw my grandparents. Though, the hardest part was being far away from home when competing. What I wish to improve the most is to play my instrument, the saxophone, better.”
- Zane Weakley (10th grade)
“I wish to improve on my tone for my instrument the most this year. The most challenging part of this year was getting everyone in the woodwind group to be on the same tone/rhythm, because I am the captain of that group. Because it’s my last season, I wanted to have the best possible experience this year, and the experience of getting to know everyone.”
- Jai Campbell (12th grade)
“My overall thoughts on the season were very good, I thought the finals placement accurately reflected our performance. My favorite moment this year was the finals run at state. The most challenging part this year was helping my section group. Because of this year, I became a more talented musician and person. The instruments I play are the trombone, baritone, and bass.”
- Harrison Walsh (12th grade)
“This year in band, I thought it could have been better, but overall good. My favorite moment this year was the finals run. The most challenging part this year was managing stress. I have grown this season by becoming calmer and improving on my instruments. The instrument I play is the drums.”
- Gene Hartsell (12th Grade)
In addition to the students, there are many varieties of brilliant coaches/instructors who teach a wide range of performance arts (percussion, color guard, brass, etc.) in Chapin’s band program. Mr. Clark is the director of bands at CHS. Followed by other instructors outside of Chapin High school, for example: Mr. Smith (CIS Director of Bands), Mrs. Shealy (CMS Director of Bands), Mrs. Watkins (Guard Director), Mr. Benjamin (Wind/Visual Staff), etc. These instructors guide the band students to success, with their hard work and dedication to make the class instructive, timely, and fun.
