Written by Breanna Abendroth
Over the course of this year, the band has shown incredible dedication while accomplishing many amazing achievements. It is fair to say that all of AHS can be very proud of the students involved.
Beginning as early as the 2025 football season, the band students worked hard on their marching band performance while also beginning preparations for concert band. Under the direction of Mr. Liebl, who continuously pushed students to improve every day, the band achieved many great accomplishments throughout the year. In the fall, the group recorded pieces they had been practicing in hopes of earning the opportunity to perform at the Iowa Bandmaster’s Association, IBA, conference in the spring. Liebl brought in several clinicians from all over the state to help improve the band throughout the year. The students got many opportunities to learn more from different points of views. They also traveled to get more insights; they visited the University of Iowa and got to work on some pieces with their band director.
Several band students participated in the solo and ensemble contest earlier this year and the outstanding nominees will be performing on May 19th. Congratulations to David Kissinger, Owen Orban, and Paul Kissinger for being selected as outstanding. They were alongside many other talented musicians who helped make this year successful.
Most recently, the band competed in a large group contest and earned a Division I rating along with a perfect score from one judge. 
Several awards were given out at the band’s final concert of the year, on May 12th. Elijah Garrett was awarded the Instrumentalist Magazine Merit award. Brooklyn Adams received the Instrumentalist Magazine Musicianship award. The Kari Westberg Instrumental Achievement award went to Jozzlynne Beaver. The Louis Armstrong Jazz award, for demonstrating superior musicianship, character, and individual creativity went to Axel Mortensen. Mortensen also received the John Aboud Prestige Instrumentalist award, exemplifying his passion for Algona High School and the instrumental music department. The final award of the night was the John Philip Sousa award, given to a student for superior musicianship, leadership, dependability, and loyalty. This is the most prestigious award for high school band students. For her merit in loyalty and cooperation and displaying high qualities of conduct that school instrument music requires, the award recipient was Abigail Droessler.
Through the students’ dedication and Mr. Liebl’s motivation, the band earned the honor of performing at IBA on Friday, May 15! The band was recognized as the top 3A band in the state of Iowa and will perform five songs for an audience of band directors and spectators from across the state. Senior Brooklyn Adams said, "I'm really glad we made it this year because it's my final event to play with the band and with my friends.”
This accomplishment reflects the countless hours of practice, determination, and teamwork the students have put in throughout the year. Their success not only represents the talent within the band program but also the pride and commitment they bring to the school community.
As the year comes to an end, the band’s achievements will leave a lasting impression and set a strong example for future musicians to follow.