The Franklin Band earned top honors at Middle Tennessee State University's Contest of Champions on Saturday, Oct. 24, claiming Grand Champion honors and the program's ninth Tennessee Governor's Cup.

The band also took first place in Class AAA and the Outstanding Music Performance award, according to FranklinIs. It was Franklin's first Grand Champion recognition at the contest since 2024.

Dr. Michael Holland, director of bands at Franklin High School, said in a statement that the win reflected the students' determination and dedication throughout the season.

"I'm incredibly proud of our students and the determination, grit, and dedication they've shown throughout this season," Holland said. "They gave their very best, and seeing their hard work recognized in this way is incredibly rewarding."

Holland also credited parents, staff and designers for making the achievement possible.

The band performed its 2026 production, "Message in a Bottle," which features "AYO" by Katahj Copley, "Wine-Dark Sea" by John Mackey, "Here Comes the Sun" by George Harrison arranged by Jacob Collier, and the hymn "It Is Well with My Soul" by Horatio Spafford and Philip Bliss.

Nine Governor's Cups now. The program also received the Sudler Shield from the John Philip Sousa Foundation in 2014 and marched in the 2026 Rose Parade, marking 30 years since its first appearance in 1996.

Franklin heads next to the Bands of America Middle Tennessee Regional Championship on Saturday, Oct. 31, at Tennessee Tech University in Cookeville. The band then travels to Indianapolis for the Bands of America Grand National Championships, Nov. 12–14, at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Before the Indianapolis trip, the band will hold a free community performance of "Message in a Bottle" on Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 7 p.m. at Franklin High School's Howard Gamble Stadium, 810 Hillsboro Road.

Upcoming Franklin Band dates

  • Saturday, Oct. 31 — Bands of America Middle Tennessee Regional, Tennessee Tech University, Cookeville
  • Tuesday, Nov. 10 — Free community performance, 7 p.m., Howard Gamble Stadium, 810 Hillsboro Road
  • Nov. 12–14 — Bands of America Grand National Championships, Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis