NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ (October 19, 2026) - The New Brunswick High School Marching Band won first place in its division at the 42nd Annual Band Festival on Oct. 3, posting a historic score of 79.6 for a program rebuilt from scratch over the past six years.
Competing in Region A, Group 2 of the U.S. Bands circuit at North Brunswick High School, the 40-member ensemble earned top honors for music, color guard, percussion, visual performance and effect. Their score was the highest in the East Coast region this season.
Director Jessie Mersinger attributed the win to years of student leadership and intense preparation. The victory proved particularly meaningful for the band, which performed a program celebrating Mexican heritage featuring traditional Oaxacan music and the folktale of La Llorona.