We advanced to Area for the first time. It was a good experience for my students but admin wasn’t very happy to see that we placed last. My students are also feeling pretty defeated.

We just can’t compete with the band that is fully staffed, has seemingly unlimited budget, and working equipment.

I know “comparison is the thief of joy” and everyone’s situations are different but the difference between my band and everyone else was definitely noticeable.

Few questions
1) are there any 5/6A bands that do make it past Area that are “the underdogs”? Limited staff, low income community, etc. Just a band that has defied all odds?
2) if my admin wants us to advance past Area, how do I argue for things like a percussion instructor, an assistant director, a working sound system, etc.
3) how do I get my program up to that level with very limited resources?

I am definitely proud of my students for advancing in the first place!! That is definitely a sign that things are on the right track!