AHS Pride of the Valley Band
The Pride of the Valley Band is the name of the band program at Andrews High. Also known as the Wildcat Band, the program has a long legacy of success in all its ventures. The band has a lot to offer!
Basic Information
Pride of the Valley Band
Samuel Kolodski, Director
50 High School Drive,
Andrews, NC 28901
Beginnings
The Andrews Wildcat Band began in 1973 under Franklin native Mary Ruth Byrd. The band started as a Jr. High program until 1975, when it also extended to Sr. High. The first "uniforms" were a pair of white pants with a red shirt. Uniforms were purchased in 1975.
Early Recognition
The band was already receiving much recognition early on. In 1977, at just nearly four years of existence, the band was invited to participate in the inaugural events of NC Governor Jim Hunt.
Later Years
The band continues to be successful in winning numerous awards at competitions every year. In recent years, the band has been invited to play in the Outback Bowl and Chick-fil-A Bowl. The Pride of the Valley Band continues its legacy with its marching and jazz band programs. It wasn't until around 2016 that the name 'The Pride of the Valley' was used to name our band. Ever since, it has stuck and has become the official name. The band still competes and wins high awards.
The Pride of the Valley Today
This year, the band competed in the Cedar Cliffs Classic Tournament of Bands, placing first place in percussion, second place in music, and second place in Class 1A.
| Mary Byrd (1973-1979) |
| Wynn Justice (1979-1985) |
| Dave Pressley (1985-1986) |
| Mike Wilson (1986-1988) |
| Paul Carmichael (1988) |
| Lori Aldridge (1988-1992) |
| Anthony Higdon (1992-2001) |
| Krista Miller (2001-2003) |
| Chad Higdon (2003-2009) |
| Joslyn Parker-Booth (2009-2022) |
| Samuel Kolodski (2022-) |
