The 42nd Volunteer Classic 

Marching Band Competition 

October 18th, 2025


Located at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, we are just 20 miles south of Knoxville, TN and 40 miles from Gatlinburg, TN. We are also only 15 miles from The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in America! Spectacular views of the beautiful Smoky Mountains are visible from inside the football stadium, site of the Volunteer Classic! 

We also have the best hospitality room in the south! All band  directors, instructors (and their family, of course) as well as bus  drivers are welcome! We also have plenty of concession stands, programs and vendors for students and spectators!

Admission to the Contest is $10

Judging & Awards 

The Volunteer Classic uses the Tennessee Bandmasters Association's caption judging format.

TBA RUBRIC SHEETS!!!


Trophies will be presented in each classification for.

● 1st, 2nd and 3rd place Band

● 1st and 2nd place Color Guard

● 1st and 2nd place Percussion

● 1st and 2nd place Drum Major


As well as:

● Grand Champion of Class 1A/2A/3A

● Grand Champion of Class 4A/5A/6A

2025 Judging Panel

Music Ensemble: Joseph Herman

Music Effect: David England

Visual Ensemble: Jim Idol

Visual Effect: Tom Case

Color Guard: Adam Heidenreich

Percussion: 

Drum Major: George Hayden