WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Osceola County School for the Arts (OCSA) Wind Ensemble has earned national recognition after capturing the prestigious President’s Cup at the 2026 President’s Cup National Concert Band Invitational, solidifying its place among the top high school ensembles in the country.
The elite invitation-only event featured just eight bands nationwide, with OCSA selected based on its Superior ratings at the 2025 Music Performance Assessments while performing the highest-level concert band literature.
The ensemble traveled to the nation’s capital midweek, beginning their experience with a day of sightseeing before diving into intensive musical development. Thursday included master classes and clinics led by retired members of the renowned United States Army Band, offering students a rare opportunity to learn from some of the nation’s most accomplished military musicians.
Friday marked the competition performances, where OCSA delivered what instructors described as an exceptional and polished performance. Each participating ensemble was required to perform the same challenging composition, “Revolutionary” by Andrew Boysen Jr., allowing judges to directly compare the musicality, precision, and interpretation of each group.
In a standout moment during the evening concert, two OCSA musicians—senior Olivia Jones (flute) and junior Madyson Cordero (alto saxophone)—were selected to perform alongside the United States Army Band, an honor reserved for top student performers from each ensemble.
Following the performances, OCSA was named the overall winner of the President’s Cup, awarded to the ensemble with the most outstanding performance of the competition.
School officials credited the achievement to months of dedication and preparation, noting the group has been working on its competition repertoire since December. The victory also reflects strong community support, with parents and local leaders helping make the trip possible.
A significant contribution came from Osceola County education leaders, including Dr. Shanoff, Dr. Evens, and the School District of Osceola County School Board, who provided a $25,000 donation to support the ensemble’s travel and participation.
“This is a special group,” program leadership shared. “Their performance was truly breathtaking, and this award is a testament to their talent, hard work, and commitment.”
Additional details released by the school district further highlight the significance of the achievement. The OCSA Wind Ensemble was selected for the 2026 President’s Cup National Concert Band Invitation based on Superior ratings earned at the 2025 Music Performance Assessments while performing the highest-level literature. Only eight bands nationwide were invited to compete, each required to learn and perform the same piece, “Revolutionary” by Andrew Boysen Jr..
After their performance, the ensemble was recognized as the overall winner for delivering the most outstanding performance of the event. As part of the experience, each band also had two students selected to perform alongside the United States Army Band during an evening concert, with OCSA’s Olivia Jones and Madyson Cordero earning that distinction.
“This ensemble worked hard all year for this incredible opportunity, and I’m so proud to stand in front of them each day,” said William Molineaux, Director of Concert Bands at OCSA. “They have really stepped up, and their performance was absolutely breathtaking. This is a special group, and this award proves how much talent they have.”
In addition to competition performances, students also participated in master classes and clinics led by retired members of the United States Army Band, further enriching their experience in the nation’s capital.
The national title adds to OCSA’s growing reputation for excellence in the arts, highlighting the strength of music education in Osceola County and placing its student musicians firmly on the national stage.
