Band performing on stage at Minority Band Directors National Association

The Noe Middle School Symphonic Band has been selected as one of just 12 middle school ensembles nationwide to perform at the 2026 Music for All National Festival.

The prestigious event, presented by Yamaha, showcases the country’s top scholastic bands. To receive an invitation is considered a high honor in school music. The Noe MS Symphonic Band was recommended by a panel of distinguished evaluators who deemed them to have achieved the level of musical performance and artistry worthy of being featured and celebrated on a national stage.

"This achievement signifies that our students grasped the performance requirements and delivered outstanding results,” said Noe Band Director Linda Pulley. “Being chosen for two prestigious national concert band festivals in 14 months is a testament to their exceptional talent and dedication. This accomplishment is a milestone in their lives, and they have every reason to be proud of it."

Students say the recognition reflects years of hard work.

“Being one of 12 middle school bands in the nation to be selected to compete at Music for All feels amazing,” said Noe trumpet player Elizabeth Conyer. “All of us worked really hard to get to this point. We’ve grown and achieved a lot over the past couple years, and all of it has led to where we are today.”

The Music for All National Festival is part of the nonprofit’s mission to create “positively life-changing experiences through music.” To receive an invitation to the National Festival “is to be recognized as one of the finest scholastic music ensembles in America,” according to the organization.