The rousing cadence of a drumline outside of the Benton Convention Center on Thursday evening signaled to the PDI attendees that something truly special was about to occur. With seamless precision, the Spirit of Walkertown Marching Band, clad in red and black uniforms, entered the Benton Center and assembled at the front of the Winston Ballroom. Anticipation filled the room as the band opened their performance with a beautiful rendition of America, followed by a medley of movie theme songs, collegiate pep tunes, and several contemporary musical hits. The performance ended with a second playing of America followed by cheers and a standing ovation from the PDI participants. These talented student musicians energized the audience and generated an atmosphere of excitement for the ensuing Awards Ceremony. The Spirit of Walkertown Marching Band (SWMB) is comprised of students (grades 7 through 12) enrolled in Walkertown Middle and High Schools. All are volunteers and receive no grades or academic credit for their participation. There are no formal auditions, yet these young musicians are a stunning musical ensemble. Their cohesive. impressive sound comes from their shared passion for music, hard work and mutual respect. Band members attend a 2-week camp during the summer and rehearse twice a week after school for 2 hours August through October. As the marching Band is a subset of the Symphonic Band, these students also attend those daily rehearsals throughout the academic year. Since its inception in 2011, the Walkertown High and Middle School Bands have earned the highest possible state rating of "Superior" 15 times at the annual NC Bandmasters Association Music Performance Adjudication!
Student leaders cultivate a respectful environment in which talent can thrive and are credited with the group’s seamless performances. David Olmedo was selected as drum major by his bandmates due to his dedication and passion for music. He attended a 2-week drum major camp at Western Carolina this past summer returning to lead the group through the football and parade season. Other student leaders are Hayden Marsh (Assistant Drum Major), Lane Vanhoy (Woodwind Section Captain and 3-time NC All-State Band Member), Lilyana Reed (Woodwind Section Leader), Michael Edwards (Trumpet and Mellophone Section Captain), David Olmedo (Low Brass Section Captain), and Brody Pennington (Drum Line Section Captain).
SWMB has enthusiastic support from school administrators, Dr. Adreian Pitts and Mrs. Monica Comer and is a source of pride for the entire school community. The Walkertown Music Department and former students Sofi Gerringer and Caleb Foote are committed to advancing the band members’ talents. Mr. Quincy Lundy directs SWMB and is in his 14th year as the director of bands at Walkertown Schools. He has received the Walkertown Middle School Teacher of the Year and the Winston-Salem Forsyth County Schools Band Director of the Year awards. Mr. Lundy was recently inducted into the prestigious American Schools Band Directors Association. Prior to teaching Mr. Lundy performed as a clarinetist in the United States Marine Corps Band at Camp Lejeune, NC. In 2001, he was awarded the Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal for composing an arrangement of God Bless the USA for the Paris Island Marine Band. 
