The Pride of Paoli Invitational will take place on September 13, starting at 4:30 p.m., at Cook Field. This is the 44th annual Invitational, which welcomes bands from around the state to compete for fans. This year, the event will be dedicated in memory of Paoli Band Director Gayle Laughlin, who passed away last year.
A total of 20 bands will compete, excluding the Pride of Paoli Marching Band, which will not compete but will perform in an exhibition. The event is a fundraiser for the band, covering everything they may need, including gas for transportation to competitions, uniforms, and silks for the color guard.
“There will be 20 bands performing. It is going to last all day. It will be a really entertaining competition because there will be some of the best bands in Indiana competing,” said Band Director Chris Karkosky.
Class A will begin at 4:21 p.m. and will begin with Mitchell, followed by New Albany, Clay City, Brown County, Dubois, and Salem.
The next class to compete will be Class AA, starting at 5:40 p.m. with Corydon, followed by Heritage Hills, Eastern Pekin, Henryville, and North Harrison.
The third division to complete is Class AAA at 7:37 p.m., beginning with Silver Creek, followed by Tell City, Orleans, Springs Valley, and Forest Park.
The final division is Class AAAA, with Jeffersonville beginning at 8:42 p.m., followed by Greenwood and Jasper.
The Pride of Paoli will perform after all the other bands at 9:21 p.m., allowing for judges to tally results.
Admission will be $8 for the audience.
