Drums are more than a loud, pounding beat for keeping the band together. In fact, drums are more than drums.
For the second year, the Harker Heights High School Red Brigade Band will host Drums in the Heartland, a percussion line competition that has already sparked growth after its initial year.
This year’s event begins at 11 a.m. Saturday, September 12 at Joseph L. Searles Stadium in Killeen. It features 17 high school percussion groups, up from the 11 that competed last year.
Admission is $10, with tickets available online prior to the event and at the gate. Concessions and event merchandise will be available throughout the day.
Tickets: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/drums-in-the-heartland--2026
“After attending similar events across the state for many years, we’re thrilled to offer that same high-quality, competitive, and educational experience here in Central Texas,” said Eric Skinner, Director of Bands at Harker Heights High School.
“With middle and high school programs from across Texas and world-class educators joining us, we’re proud to share this special event with our community.”
“It creates a lot of camaraderie. Our kids can go meet those directors and kids from out of the area. That is great.” Harker Heights Percussion Director Clay Roesler said at last year’s event.
Bowie High from the Austin ISD and Hutto High earned the most points respectively in the larger band Black Division. Chaparral finished fourth and Shoemaker was sixth in that group.
In the smaller band Red Division, Temple won the event and Ellison finished in third place. The Red Brigade Band’s drumline performed in exhibition.
Drums in the Heartland photos from 2025:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/killeenisd/albums/72177720329017165
SPIRIT SPECTACULAR SCHEDULED
Killeen residents have another opportunity the following Saturday on September 19 to support KISD marching bands and fine arts at the 48th annual Spirit Spectacular. The show starts at 6 p.m. at Leo Buckley Stadium.
All five KISD marching bands with dance teams and color guards will showcase their competition shows as they begin the season leading to the UIL region contest October 17.
In addition, the district’s 10 middle school bands and other spirit groups will get time on the field, and the entire group will provide a spectacular finale to conclude.