Central High Wind Ensemble wins gold in national competition

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The Central High band is back in the Valley after winning big in our nation's capitol. The wind ensemble won gold at the festival of gold competition in Washington D.C.

Cheering parents with balloons and signs in hand, welcomed home the Central High Concert Band fresh off their first place win at the Heritage Musical Festival of Gold in Washington D.C.

"It was a really amazing trip. It was the first time I was on a plane," said Jason Preciadio, band member.

Band members were still full of excitement for the whirlwind trip and their major win. Last year, the band took first in a competition in Seattle that earned them a chance to compete on the national stage.

"They came home from Seattle and brought home the gold and were invited to go to Washington D.C. for the festival and took home the gold again. So exciting. This band is fantastic and amazing," said Lisa Long, band mom.

The band spent months practicing here at home for the national competition at the Strathmore Music Center.

Their parents say it's hard work that's paid off.

"An experience of a lifetime for them. They've been all over the capitol and seen some of the great things our country has to offer. Just an amazing experience to be able to play in the band, to be in Washington D.C. at the capitol and to win the whole thing and take home the trophy is a great experience," said Long.

A trip complete with awards and memories they won't forget. "I got to experience it with people that I've known for a year, but I feel like they're my family," said Preciadio.