The Suttons Bay Public Schools High School Band has achieved a significant milestone, qualifying for the State Band and Orchestra Festival and earning a Division II rating — an “Excellent” distinction — under Michigan’s rigorous adjudication standards.
This marks the first time in 10 years that Suttons Bay students have performed at the state level, a proud and meaningful accomplishment that reflects the hard work, dedication, and musical growth of the entire ensemble.
“We should be very proud of our students,” said Dante Billeci, Suttons Bay Public Schools band director. “This achievement is a direct result of their focus, passion, and willingness to push themselves musically. They represented our school and community with excellence.”
The Division II rating is the second-highest possible honor at the State Festival, underscoring the band’s outstanding performance and musical excellence.
The 7th and 8th grade band earned a Division II (“Excellent”) rating at District Band and Orchestra Festival — the first in six years.
And the high school band earned a Division I (“Superior”) rating at District Festival — the first time in a decade — and went on to earn a Division II rating at State Festival, also a first in 10 years.
Currently there are 54 students in grades 5–12 participating in band at Suttons Bay Schools. Each band class includes roughly 10–20 students, depending on the grade level.
“While our numbers may seem modest, I want to emphasize that the strength of our program lies not just in enrollment, but in the dedication, musical growth, and sense of community our students demonstrate,” Billeci said. “These students have achieved remarkable things — through hard work, a deepening love of music, and meaningful collaborations within and beyond our school.”
Among there more than 30 students have received scholarships to attend music camps and enrichment programs; eight students participated in the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association (MSBOA) Middle School Honor Band; two high school students earned Division II ratings at Solo and Ensemble Festival,; and five middle schoolers earned Division I ratings.
Suttons Bay Bands Mentorship Program, supported by Suttons Bay Friends of the Fine Arts, pair professional musicians from throughout northern Michigan who regularly work one-on-one and in small groups with students.
Several students now perform with the Northport Community Band, which is also directed by Billeci. This intergenerational group includes musicians from across the region.
Other program highlights:
• In March 2024, the MSU Jazz Orchestras and GRAMMYnominated pianist Bobby Floyd performed at the Suttons Bay HS auditorium as part of a fundraiser for our program.
• In November 2024, our high school band students performed alongside GRAMMY-nominated guitarist Dan Wilson and the MSU Jazz Nonets in another successful fundraising concert.
• In spring 2024, the school launched a high school pep band to energize and support Suttons Bay basketball players.
