Aquinas Catholic
Southern Nebraska Register
The Marching Monarchs from Aquinas Catholic in David City received a Division 1 rating at the Nebraska State Bandmasters Association State Marching Festival Oct. 26, marking a significant milestone as their first in over three decades.
Comprised of 31 members, the marching band featured four color guards to elevate the overall presentation. The band performed “Man of Steel” by Hans Zimmer, enhanced by the inclusion of three middle school percussionists to strengthen the ensemble.
The band’s director is Deacon Bob Viergutz, who is celebrating his second year at Aquinas Catholic Schools and brings nearly 40 years of experience. The band also acknowledged the instrumental groundwork laid by former director Mrs. Helen Ostdiek, who contributed 27 years of service before retiring.
This year, seniors Finley Zook, Sydney Hartman, and drum majorette Bella Comte led the Marching Monarchs, who earned four ratings of 1 and two ratings of 2, narrowly missing the top rating by less than one point on both occasions.
“I’m just so proud how hard the kids worked this year,” Deacon Viergutz said. “I can’t imagine another way to end this season.”
Since marching season has ended, he is now preparing all Aquinas Catholic bands for the upcoming Christmas concerts, with performances scheduled for the sixth grade, middle school, and high school bands. The performances will be Dec. 11 at 6 p.m. in the Aquinas MS/HS north gym. The fifth-grade band will perform during the Aquinas Catholic Elementary Christmas program Dec. 18 at 1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., also in the Aquinas MS/HS north gym.
