Plymouth High School Band Program sets state record with 23rd Consecutive ISSMA "All-Music Award"

Friday, May 1, 2026 at 12:00 AM

By Kathy Bottorff

The Plymouth High School band program has once again cemented its place in Indiana music history, earning the prestigious Indiana State School Music Association (ISSMA) "All-Music Award" for a record-breaking 23rd consecutive year following stellar performances at the annual Organizational Contest.

On Friday, April 24th, the Plymouth High School Bands traveled to Concord High School to compete in the regional ISSMA concert band event. Both the Symphonic Band and the Wind Ensemble delivered outstanding performances, sweeping the competition with top honors.

The Plymouth Symphonic Band took the stage first, earning gold ratings from all three judges to secure an overall Gold Award rating. The ensemble also demonstrated its technical proficiency by earning a Gold Award rating in the sight-reading category.

Later in the evening, the Plymouth Wind Ensemble continued the winning streak. The group earned gold ratings—including two perfect scores from the judging panel—resulting in an overall Gold Award. Like the Symphonic Band, they also achieved a Gold Award in sight-reading. Furthermore, the Wind Ensemble was honored with the "With Distinction Award" for their exceptional combined scores.

The concert bands' success was the final piece needed to secure the ISSMA "All-Music Award" for the school year. This elite recognition is only presented to programs that earn solid gold ratings across every aspect of their curriculum, including marching band, jazz band, concert bands, and state finals for numerous solos and ensembles.

With this year's achievement, Plymouth High School continues to hold the state record as the only school band program in Indiana to earn the "All-Music Award" for such an extended period of time.

The historic and highly decorated band program is directed by Bryan Ames, Matt Berg, and Jessi Hutchinson.