KHS Marching Band – Achievements and the Teachers Behind the Music

The Kinston High School Marching Band is more than a performance group — it is a symbol of discipline, pride, and achievement for the community. With a record of success in competitions and the leadership of dedicated teachers, the band continues to inspire students and uplift Kinston.

The Kinston High School Marching Band has long been a source of pride for the community, earning recognition across North Carolina for its musical excellence and discipline. This weekend, the band will not only perform but also host a marching band competition, bringing together schools from across the region to celebrate music, teamwork, and achievement.

Competition Details

• Date & Time: Saturday, November 16, 2025, starting at 12:00 PM

• Location: Kinston High School Stadium, 2601 N. Queen Street, Kinston, NC

• Admission: Open to the public; tickets available at the gate.

The event will feature multiple high school bands competing in categories such as music performance, marching and maneuvering, percussion, flag, and dance line. Awards will be presented at the conclusion of the competition.

Competition Success

• At their first competition of the 2023 season in Charlotte, the band earned:

  • 2nd Place Overall in Class

  • 1st Place in Music, Flag, and Dance

  • 2nd Place in General Effect, Marching & Maneuvering, and Drum Major

  • 3rd Place in Percussion

• These results highlight the band’s ability to excel in both musical and visual performance categories.

• Beyond competitions, the band regularly performs at football games, parades, and community events, bringing energy and pride to Kinston.

  
  

Student Achievements

• KHS senior Devin Hayes, a trumpeter, earned a full‑ride music scholarship to Fayetteville State University after years of success with the band and repeated appearances in the LCPS All‑County Band.

• Students consistently earn spots in regional and county honor bands, proving the program’s strength in preparing musicians for higher education and professional opportunities.

  
  

The Teachers Behind the Music

• Mr. Leonard Palmer, KHS music specialist and band director, is widely praised as “the man behind the music”. He has guided the marching band through seasons of growth and achievement.

• Palmer’s leadership emphasizes not only musical excellence but also life skills: teamwork, discipline, and friendship. His mentorship has helped students like Hayes secure scholarships and recognition at the state level.

• Community members and alumni frequently commend Palmer’s dedication, describing him as an outstanding teacher who constantly evolves the program.

Upcoming Event

This weekend, the KHS Marching Band will host a competition at Kinston High School Stadium (2601 N. Queen Street). The event begins at 12:00 PM on Saturday, November 16, 2025, and is open to the public with tickets available at the gate. Families, alumni, and supporters are encouraged to attend and celebrate the band’s achievements.

Conclusion

The Kinston High School Marching Band stands as a beacon of success in both music and community spirit. With award‑winning performances, scholarship‑earning students, and the guidance of dedicated teachers like Leonard Palmer, the band continues to prove that Kinston’s youth can achieve greatness on and off the field.