The PRIDE of Owasso is a nationally known band program. The marching band was recently invited to perform (for the 5th time) in the Tournament of Roses Parade in 2011. The John Philip Sousa Foundation has awarded the band the coveted Sudler Trophy for excellence in marching band (2004). The band has been a Finalist at numerous Bands of America Regionals and, in 2005 and 2011, was a BOA Grand National Finalist. On a state level, the PRIDE of Owasso has received straight Superior ratings at OSSAA State Contest for over 40 years.
But, there is much more to the Owasso Band Program than the marching band. The concert bands are respected on an international level. The Wind Ensemble has performed at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic (1999). The 7th Grade Band, 8th Grade Band, Symphonic Band, and Wind Ensemble have all been named Honor Bands numerous times by the Oklahoma Music Educator’s Association. Owasso band students have claimed more chairs in the All-Region and All-State bands than any other school in Oklahoma for over 30 years. The John Philip Sousa Foundation has awarded the band the Sudler Flag for excellence in concert band (1997).
Students begin their band training in the sixth grade at Owasso Sixth Grade Center. They meet each day for fifty minutes in one of five homogenous instrument classes. Emphasis is placed on fundamental learning and rehearsal discipline. All band students are combined at the end of the school year for their first performance as a band.
Over the next two years, students participate in one of two seventh-grade bands and one of two eighth-grade bands, all of which are performing, concert, and contest-oriented ensembles. Students also participate in Solo/Ensemble events. Continued emphasis is placed on playing fundamentals.
High School members are placed in one of five concert bands. All groups strive for a high degree of technical proficiency and ensemble skill. Owasso has earned over 100 Sweepstakes Awards (Superior ratings in Marching, Concert, and Sight-Reading).