Tournament of Bands

The Tournament of Bands (TOB) is one of the largest competitive band organizations in the United States and is one of several major circuits in the mid-Atlantic states (other circuits include Cavalcade of Bands and USBands). TOB was founded in 1972 by the National Judges Association and currently has 439 member bands. It provides a large array of competitive performance opportunities including marching band, indoor guard, majorette, percussion, and dance teams. TOB sanctions approximately 140 field band events as well as about 100 indoor events annually.

TOB is open to any elementary, middle, junior high, or senior high school, as well as any college or university. It also has an independent category which can be anyone within a certain age limit. Currently, TOB is divided into 13 Chapters across 9 states. The membership by state is as follows:

The Tournament of Bands sanctions about 140 marching band competitions throughout each fall, corresponding roughly with high school football season. Bands are judged on a 100 point linear scale by judges both on the field and in the press box. Bands are also divided into groups based on their size, and judged only within their group. Sizes are as follows:

In addition to the group sizes, there are three levels of performance classification that a member may elect to participate:

1. OPEN CLASS (formerly Championship) This level is what has been offered in the past - bands will compete throughout the season for TOB scoring and conclude their season with the annual Chapter Championship and qualification for the annual Atlantic Coast Championship.

2. A CLASS (formerly Regional) This level is for the less experienced bands - bands will compete throughout the season, with emphasis on education and development, but still follow the TOB scoring. Student education, development, and staff training will be emphasized throughout the season.

3. FESTIVAL CLASS This level will introduce bands to TOB - bands will compete, but at more of an exhibition level with awards based on a rating program without the announcement of a numeric score or place. Student education, development, and staff training will be emphasized throughout the season. This season concludes with the annual Chapter Championship, still following the rating system.

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