The Rhythm Rats Marching Band made an impressive debut on October 6, earning two first-place titles at the 21st annual Downriver Fanfare in Wyandotte. Competing for the first time in Huron High School history, the band took home Best in Show (Overall Competition First Place) and first place in the AA division.
The 191-member ensemble earned an overall score of 90.6, surpassing the 90-point mark that few schools achieve. The result was a milestone for the band in its first-ever marching band competition.
Bands at the Downriver Fanfare are evaluated in six categories: Music Performance, Music Effect, Marching Performance, Visual Effect, Percussion, and Auxiliary/Color Guard. Each scholastic competition recognizes its own overall champion. The Rhythm Rats compete in the AA division, designated for schools with an average grade enrollment of 400 or more students.
The Downriver Fanfare is part of the Scholastic Marching Band circuit that has grown to include 22 competitions throughout the 2026 season. Scholastic band competitions are standalone events with no statewide final, unlike the Michigan Competing Band Association (MCBA).
The Huron High School marching band is an academic program that requires a significant time and physical effort commitment, much like a varsity sport. Students balance rehearsals and performances with demanding academic coursework while striving for musical excellence.
Under the direction of Robert Ash and Evy Rodriguez, the Rhythm Rats are led by senior drum major Ahmad El-Yaman and junior drum major Mira Shelgikar. Their debut competition brought home two titles and established a memorable milestone for Huron High School’s music program.
Read more about the Huron High School Band Program.
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