When we were sitting at the Walnut Valley Festival in Kansas last September, the idea of competing at SPBGMA came up. We talked about it as a family, and honestly, it seemed like a long shot. The SPBGMA International Band Championship has launched the careers of some incredible acts – Brand New Strings, Mountain Faith, Flatt Lonesome, Blue Mafia, and High Fidelity all competed there. But we decided to go for it.
The months between September and January were intense. Josiah had been playing drums for most of the band’s life, but he needed to focus on bluegrass rhythm guitar for the competition. Ezra had been playing uke-bass, but I told him it was time to get out the upright and start building up some calluses. Both boys worked incredibly hard, and I couldn’t be prouder of their dedication.
When we got to Nashville in January, we were nervous but ready. We’d practiced, we’d prepared, and we’d prayed. When they called our name as the winners, we were stunned. The boys didn’t fully understand what we’d accomplished at first – and honestly, a week later, we’re still processing it.
This win means the world to us, not because of what it might lead to, but because of what it represents – our family working together, supporting each other, and making music we love. We’re grateful for this opportunity and excited to see where it takes us.