High school and middle school bands went head to head for cash prizes

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- An afternoon of competitive marching starts with the first step. Each band has to be in unison and in tune, with perfect formation -- all while being judged only the best of the best will take home a piece of the $15,000 up for grabs.

Stephen Alvarado, a first-time drum major with Liberty Middle School says it is a little nerve wrecking.

"Kinda nervous but I gotta stay confident," said Alvarado.

For some, that feeling is hard to shake. Jeun Cambico from Terronez Middle School competed last year but this time, he is in the lead.

"Nervous but excited cause you know, there's a chance we might lose but also a chance we might win," said Cambico.

It is not just middle school bands on the field--high schools are also in the competition. They come from as far north as Merced and as far south as Porterville.

"It's a chance for us to showcase the Valley's talent, really, with the younger generation."

"It's exciting and the weather is nice so it's just a great day to be out," said

Andre Whittle is here for two reasons-- his goddaughter, who is in the Rio Vista color guard and his son, a senior trumpet player at Bullard High School.

"They're having a good time, they get to come to the fair and miss a day of school," said Whittle.

"It's his senior year, so it's a big deal."