COLUMBIA, Tenn--- Columbia Central High School junior, Alexis Kilpatrick, has been accepted into the National Future Farmers of America (FFA) Band and will play the French horn at the 98^th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis, Indiana, October 25 – November 1.

The National FFA Band is a prestigious ensemble of musically talented FFA members from across the United States that perform at the annual National FFA Convention and Expo. The band offers a valuable opportunity for young musicians to gain performance experience while bonding with other members from across the country.

Once band members arrive, they only have a few days to rehearse before performing multiple times on stage throughout the week of the convention, including during general sessions and concerts. Each year 70,000 FFA members from across the nation gather to celebrate accomplishments and compete in events at the national level. 

“Columbia FFA is extremely proud of Alexis and her selection to perform with the National FFA Band,” said Agriculture Teacher/FFA Advisor, Coty Vannoy at Columbia Central High School. “This prestigious opportunity is a testament to her dedication, talent, and commitment to excellence. She is a wonderful representative of our chapter, school, and community.”

The first National FFA Band performed at the 1947 National FFA Convention, an annual tradition that showcases musically gifted FFA members selected from auditions across the country. The ensemble originally started as a "mail order band" before becoming a popular staple of the National FFA Convention & Expo, where members rehearse and perform throughout the convention week. 

For more information about the National FFA Convention and Expo, follow FFA Convention Information.

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