Bryant Public Schools

The Bryant High School Wind Symphony proudly represented Bryant High School and the state of Arkansas at the 2026 U.S. Army Band President’s Cup in Washington, D.C., one of the nation’s most prestigious invitational events for high school concert bands and wind ensembles.

First established in 2015, the President’s Cup National Concert Band Invitational brings together some of America’s top concert bands for a unique opportunity to learn from and perform alongside the finest musicians in the country. Supported by the United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own,” the event includes expert instruction through sectionals, workshops and on-stage clinics led by retired and active-duty members of the U.S. Army Band.

Bryant was one of just eight outstanding ensembles from across the nation selected to participate in this year’s invitational, a distinction that reflects the excellence and reputation of the Wind Symphony program. On Thursday, students took part in a full day of professional clinics and masterclasses, and on Friday, the ensemble delivered a highly acclaimed performance at the George Mason University Hylton Center.

The experience concluded with a concert by the U.S. Army Band, made even more special by the selection of Bryant seniors Elijah Atkinson and Claire Matthews to perform alongside the distinguished musicians during a portion of the program, an honor that highlights the caliber of talent within the Bryant program.

For more than a decade, the President’s Cup has showcased many of the nation’s finest high school bands, with each ensemble chosen as a worthy representative of its school and community. Bryant High School’s invitation to participate stands as a testament to the musicianship, discipline and character of its students and directors.

The Bryant community is incredibly proud of the Wind Symphony for representing Legacy with excellence on a national stage.