CANCELED: 26th Annual Heart of America Marching Band Festival
LAWRENCE – Because of forecasted inclement weather on Saturday, Oct. 21, the 26th Annual Heart of America Marching Festival has been canceled.
The University of Kansas, Northeast Music Educators Association and Meyer Music host the annual event, which is well-known throughout the Midwest. This year 22 bands from across Kansas and Missouri were expected to perform at KU Memorial Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
In making the decision to call-off the marching festival, Matt Smith, director of the KU Marching Jayhawks, said the threat of lightning, rain, and potential damage to instruments, electronic equipment and uniforms factored into the decision.
“Our number one consideration is the safety and well-being of the participants, directors and families involved,” Smith said. “This is a very important event for the KU Band program so the decision was a difficult one. We received several inquiries about the weather over the last few days, as it can impact the travel decisions of bands, especially those that have to travel from far away.”
The event will not be rescheduled. For more information contact the KU School of Music at music@ku.edu or 785-864-3436.
