Two developing Warren Central band groups are on a roll. They have received awards at each competition they entered this year.

The indoor percussion group, comprised of 27 horn players from Warren Central High School’s Big Blue Band, placed first at the home competition at WC, and second at contests at Pearl and Petal high schools. They also came in second at the Mississippi Indoor Association Circuit Championship at Ridgeland High School. The group wrapped up its competition season by placing third at the Winter Guard and Indoor Percussion Regional in Pensacola, Fla.

The indoor winter guard, comprised of 10 members from Big Blue, placed first at the home competition and at Petal, as well as at the WGIP Regional in Houston in their skill category —  intermediate. They placed second at Pearl and at the MIA Circuit Championship.

The percussion group, in its third year, is “completely voluntary and outside of school,” said Chad Austin, assistant Big Blue Band director and indoor percussion leader. “We rehearse after school, and we keep it separate from the band.

“I think being a part of this group extends their music experience and band experience,” he said. “It gives them a chance to grow.”

The indoor winter guard, also a voluntary group, is in its second year. Students compete by performing choreographed dance steps, using equipment such as rifles, flags or sabers. Auditions are required.

“All of our color guard play an instrument in the band,” said Melynn Arendale, Big Blue Band director and sponsor of the group.

Auditions for the 2010-2011 winter guard will open in November.

Contact Manivanh Chanprasith at mchan@vicksburgpost.com