Lytle ISD Pirate Bands Make History at UIL Evaluations as Junior High Earns First-Ever First Division and 20 Students Advance Toward State
Students across the Lytle ISD Pirate Band program are celebrating a milestone season after a series of standout performances at University Interscholastic League (UIL) music competitions, marking historic achievements for both Lytle Junior High and Lytle High School band students.
From a district-first UIL First Division rating earned by the Lytle Junior High Non-Varsity Band to 20 high school musicians delivering strong results at UIL Solo and Ensemble, the past several weeks have highlighted the continued growth and dedication of student musicians across the district.
For families, educators, and community members in Lytle, Texas, the results reflect years of commitment to music education, teamwork, and performance excellence within the Pirate Band program.
Lytle Junior High Non-Varsity Band Makes District History at UIL
After three consecutive days of UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Evaluation, the Lytle Junior High Non-Varsity Bandachieved a milestone never before reached in the district.
The ensemble earned the program’s first-ever First Division rating, marking a historic moment for the junior high band program.
At the same evaluation event, the Lytle Junior High Varsity Band also delivered an outstanding performance, receiving First Division ratings both on stage and in sight reading, earning the ensemble a UIL Sweepstakes Award. The achievement marks the third consecutive year the varsity band has earned Sweepstakes recognition.
Beyond the awards, educators say the UIL evaluation process provides important insight into student development and the overall strength of the program.
The performances offered a clear picture of what the bands are doing well and where future growth can help strengthen musicianship and ensemble performance in the years ahead.
Future Band Directors Get a Glimpse Into Music Education Careers
This year’s UIL experience also provided a unique opportunity for three Dual Credit Education Pathway students, who attended the UIL Concert and Sight-Reading events and served as Assistant Band Directors for the day.
The students spent time working alongside the junior high bands, gaining firsthand exposure to the responsibilities of music educators and experiencing the behind-the-scenes work involved in preparing students for major competitions.
School leaders noted the young women represented the Lytle Band Program with professionalism and enthusiasm, demonstrating strong potential as future music educators.
Their participation highlights the district’s commitment not only to developing musicians, but also to inspiring the next generation of teachers and band directors.
Lytle High School Band Sends Multiple Musicians Toward State Competition
At Lytle High School, Pirate musicians also delivered impressive results at the UIL Solo and Ensemble Contest held February 26, where student performers received ratings based on a scale of 1 to 5, with Division 1 representing the highest level of achievement.
Several students earned Division 1 ratings and qualified for advancement to the UIL State Solo and Ensemble Contest, representing a significant accomplishment for both individual performers and the program as a whole.
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Ensembles Advancing to State
Percussion Ensemble – Division 1, advancing to State
Members: Maddilyn Aguinaga (9th), Eleah Avelar (12th), Jaxon Hunt (9th), Nevaeh Kassin (11th), Taryn McDonald (12th)
Flute Trio – Division 1, advancing to State
Members: Nadia Daniels (12th), Orlando Gutierrez (10th), Aubrey Olivarez (8th)
Brass Quintet – Division 1, advancing to State
Members: Auslyn Beazer (12th), Gabriela Cortez (12th), Timothy Gutierrez (12th), Koby Lara (12th), James Reed (11th)
Solo Performers Advancing to State
Taryn McDonald (12th) – Marimba Solo – Division 1
Nadia Daniels (12th) – Flute Solo – Division 1
Nevaeh Kassin (11th) – Marimba Solo – Division 1
Emma Emery (10th) – Alto Saxophone Solo – Division 1
Auslyn Beazer (12th) – French Horn Solo – Division 1
Koby Lara (12th) – Trombone Solo – Division 1
Additional Division 1 Solo Performances
Marina Gonzales (8th) – Snare Drum Solo
Landon Garcia (8th) – Marimba Solo
Eleah Avelar (12th) – Vibraphone Solo
Jaxon Hunt (9th) – Snare Drum Solo
Madilynn Aguinaga (9th) – Snare Drum Solo
Ellicia Lara (9th) – Trumpet Solo
Isabella Vega (9th) – Trombone Solo
George Guerrero (9th) – Trumpet Solo
Division 2 Performances
Aaliyah Reyes (8th) – Snare Drum Solo
Camila Vega (11th) – Trumpet Solo
In total, 20 Pirate Band students participated in UIL Solo and Ensemble, with numerous performers earning top ratings and several moving forward to state-level competition.
Continued Momentum for the Lytle Pirate Band Program
In addition to the solo and ensemble performances, the Lytle High School Band also competed in UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Evaluation during the week of March 2, earning a First Division rating in Sight Reading.
The results across both campuses highlight the continued momentum of the Pirate Band program, where students develop musical skills, discipline, and confidence while representing their schools with pride.
Community Invited to Upcoming Spring Band Concert
Families and community members will have an opportunity to hear many of these talented musicians perform live at the Lytle ISD Spring Band Concert, scheduled for:
- May 4, 2026
- 6:00 p.m.
- Lytle High School Auditorium
The concert will feature performances from student musicians across the Pirate Band program and provide a chance for the community to celebrate another successful year of music education in Lytle ISD.
As the district looks ahead to the remainder of the school year and upcoming competitions, school leaders say they remain proud of the dedication shown by students, educators, and families who support the Pirate Band program.
Residents are encouraged to stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for more updates on student achievements and local school accomplishments across Lytle ISD.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.