Darlington Bands Earns Historic OPA Award!

Darlington High School Marching Falcons Earn Historic SCBDA Outstanding Performance Award

Darlington, SC—June 6, 2025 — The Darlington High School Marching Falcons have achieved a historic milestone by earning the South Carolina Band Directors Association (SCBDA) Outstanding Performance Award (OPA) for the first time in the school's history. This prestigious recognition, announced in May 2025, honors the band's exceptional achievements across marching, concert, and solo/ensemble performances during the 2024–2025 academic year.

Known as the "Pride of the Pee Dee," the Marching Falcons' dedication and hard work have culminated in this significant accomplishment.  The OPA is the highest honor bestowed by the SCBDA, reflecting excellence in various facets of band performance.  Darlington High School's inclusion among the 2025 OPA recipients in the 2A classification underscores the band's commitment to musical excellence.

Band Director Dr. Brendan Johnson expressed immense pride in the students' dedication, stating, "This achievement is a testament to the countless hours of practice, the perpetual dedication of our students, and the steadfast support from our school and community. We could have earned this award years ago; however, we are only now able to establish a statewide competition that caters to traditional-style (high-stepping) marching bands."

The Marching Falcons' journey to this accolade involved outstanding performances in various competitions and assessments, showcasing their musical prowess and collaborative spirit.  Their success serves as an inspiration to aspiring musicians and highlights the vibrant arts culture within Darlington High School.

For more information about the Darlington High School Marching Falcons and upcoming performances, please visit www.darlingtonbands.org.