The Fairfax High School Concert Band performed in Branson, Missouri, on Friday, April 4, 2025, opening for the Presley Country Jubilee Show. (Submitted photo)

The Fairfax High School Concert Band made their debut in Branson, Missouri, on Friday, April 4, 2025.

After a long day of traveling, they had the opportunity to work with a clinician, and then opened up for the Presley Country Jubilee Show. Their performance consisted of the following songs: “Extremis” by Randall D. Standridge, “Declaration Overture”  by Claude T. Smith, “With Honor” by PINKZEBRA, “Jungle Dance” by Brian Balmages, and “Moscow 1941” by Brian Balmages.

After the band’s performance, they enjoyed the outstanding Presley Country Jubilee Show. (During the show, they announced Fairfax, Missouri, in one of their songs, “I’ve been Everywhere”). Students took advantage of the intermission time, not just for snacks, but for autographs from the performers. Some of the students had their green ties autographed, since they were being retired. The band’s new ties did not come in until after they were on the road, so this worked out perfectly.

Saturday was originally a day scheduled for Silver Dollar City, however, due to non-stop rain, plans had to be changed to an indoor activity. Their first stop was WonderWorks of Branson, which is a science focused indoor amusement park for the mind, combining education and entertainment. Their second stop was Fritz’s Adventure, where students could enjoy underground tunnels, laser rooms, climbing walls, rappelling tree houses, zip lines and more. After leaving Branson, the band stopped at Lambert’s Cafe in Ozark for a good hot meal and had a few rolls thrown at them. This was a fun experience, especially for those who have never been to Branson. The group arrived home close to midnight, exhausted, but with memories that will last for a lifetime.

This trip was made possible by all the donations the Fairfax High School Band received. Debra Wyatt, director, said, “We thank you from the bottom of our hearts! The trip and performance was a wonderful experience and our goal is to always make Fairfax proud! As a director I love to get Fairfax band out there and let others learn about our amazing town in Northwest Missouri. It also gives the kids a chance to visit new places they normally would not see let alone perform at. This group of musicians is an amazing group to work with and it is such an honor to be their director! In four years, I would love to do this trip again! This will give future Fairfax musicians this wonderful opportunity.”