VIENNA, Va. — Heavy metal band Metallica has launched a nationwide marching band competition, and a Northern Virginia high school has made the list of finalists.
Oakton High School's Marching Cougars, a prestigious 25-year Virginia Honor Band, was chosen as a national finalist in the band's inaugural "For Whom the Band Tolls." The Marching Cougars were picked as one of the top five bands in the small high school category by a panel whom are professional marching band judges.
The Metallica band members will view the high school's submission and choose the overall winner to be awarded $15,000 in prizes the first week in January.
The Marching Cougars' show submission, “Parade to Black”, features "The Unforgiven", "For Whom the Bell Tolls", "Turn the Page"; which is a frequent cover by Metallica, "The Memory Remains", and "Enter Sandman."
In a press release it was revealed that Band Director Dr. Jamie VanValkenburg selected the show to align with his vision of the Marching Cougars as a band that engages both performers and the audience through thrilling visuals and dynamic sound.
The school and local community can support the Marching Cougars as “Fan Favorite” on this national stage by voting. Voting ends on Dec. 31, 2023 online at metallicamarchingband.com/submissions/high-school or by texting 'VOTE #HSOAKTON' to 1-833-609-0330.
"This competition provides an extraordinary platform for the Marching Cougars’ talented musicians to demonstrate their achievements and serves as a testament to the vibrant and accomplished music program at Oakton High School," the Band Boosters of Oakton High School stated in a release.