The Rodriguez Junior High band just made history.
For the first time in 64 years, the Rodriguez band (formerly Carter Junior High band) earned the University Interscholastic League (UIL) Sweepstakes Award, the highest honor a band can receive in Texas UIL music competitions. The achievement marks a defining moment for students, staff, and the entire Arlington ISD community.
“Getting to work with them on the podium and watching that growth unfold every day has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career,” said Alexis Solomon, Rodriguez assistant band director.
Solomon explained that the band’s success didn’t come from shortcuts or flashy routines. It came from embracing the basics with purpose.
“We made a point to focus on the things that aren’t always fun but are essential to becoming a disciplined, mature musician: long tones, fundamentals, and detailed drills,” Solomon said. “The kids understood the purpose behind it, and they committed to it fully.”
That commitment radiated on the UIL stage, where students demonstrated musical maturity far beyond their years. Junior high musicians typically only have two years of experience before being expected to perform at a high level, a challenge Solomon says the students met with determination.
“This accomplishment is a reflection of who our students are: capable, driven, and ready to achieve great things, regardless of circumstances or time on their instrument,” Solomon said.
For many students, the win carried an emotional weight that went far beyond the performance itself. After months of intense rehearsals, they saw their effort turn into something historic.
“The feeling of getting sweepstakes while knowing all the time, dedication, and hard work that went into it compares to no other,” said Lupita, an oboe player in the band.
Roman, who plays percussion in the band, understands how historic their achievement is.
“Sixty-four years of waiting. Every note carried hope, and every failure carried weight, but it all paid off,” Roman said. “Sweepstakes wasn’t given, it was earned.”
This award represents far more than musical excellence, it symbolizes a new beginning for a program raising the bar for every student.
“Hard work pays off,” said Chad Strother, head band director. “The students really strived to rise to the challenge every day. Next year’s students have big shoes to fill and the established pattern of excellence our kids started this year.”