JEMISON — The Jemison High School Blue Regiment Band has been busy learning and rehearsing music this semester. That hard work has now paid off.

Recently, the band received an overall superior ratings at the Alabama BandMaster’s Association District Assessment. Not only did they just make an overall superior rating, they received a superior rating from each of the three judges at the competition.

Band director George Martin said the judges awarded the band A’s in every category.

The band performed three selections: “March of the Rocketeers,” “Declaration in Blue” and “Moscow 1941.” The last number is a musical depiction of the Nazi invasion of Russia.

“It’s a great piece for the band,” Martin said.

District Assessment for District V was held at Hillcrest High School in Tuscaloosa. Other bands competing in this district are from counties including Autauga, Chilton, Dallas, Greene, Lowndes, Marengo, Pickens, Sumter and Tuscaloosa.

By earning superior ratings, Jemison has qualified to participate in the State Assessment in March. The event will be held at Briarwood Presbyterian Church.

The band excellence has also garnered Jemison some individual honors as well. Schylar McBride, Justin Pollock and Matthew Stiles all qualified to participate in All-State Band.

McBride who plays tuba earned a spot in the Red Band. Pollock who plays trumpet earned a spot in the White Band while tuba player Stiles is an alternate.

All-State Band will be held at Auburn University in April.