The sounds of marching bands will fill Pat Strother Memorial Stadium in Coushatta later this month as the Red River Blue Wave Sound Machine prepares to host the inaugural Clash on the River: Battle of the Bands.

The event is scheduled for Saturday, October 24, 2026, beginning at 5 p.m. at Pat Strother Memorial Stadium, located at 931 East Carroll Street in Coushatta.

Nine high school bands from Louisiana and Arkansas are scheduled to participate in the competition, bringing their musical talents, marching skills and school spirit to the field.

Participating schools include Wossman High School, Union Parish High School, Huntington High School, Logansport High School, Richwood High School, Mansfield High School, Green Oaks High School, Woodlawn High School and Prescott High School.

The bands will compete for the title of Grand Champion during what organizers hope will become a memorable new tradition for the Red River community.

The competition will provide an opportunity for students to showcase the hard work, dedication and countless hours of practice that go into preparing a marching band performance. Spectators can expect an evening filled with music, precision marching and spirited competition as the participating bands take the field.

Louis Lemons Jr., RRHS Band Director, is encouraging community members to attend and support the students. Organizers are also seeking businesses and individuals interested in sponsoring the competition to help make the inaugural event a success.

With nine bands preparing to compete, Clash on the River promises to bring an exciting evening of music and entertainment to Coushatta while celebrating the talents of high school musicians.

Community members are encouraged to mark their calendars for October 24 and come out to support the Red River Blue Wave Sound Machine and all participating bands.

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