Opelika High School Band Program consists of several music ensembles: The Marching band, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, and Jazz Band. There are also two new indoor visual ensembles, the Winter Guard and Indoor Percussion Ensemble and Concert Percussion Ensemble. Below is a brief description of each ensemble. The Opelika High School Marching Band, also known as “The Spirit of the South” meets and practices during the summer and through the fall semester. With rehearsals after school, this ensemble regularly practices and works towards achieving a high level of musicianship and marching technique. This group performs at every football game and competes at marching competitions throughout the year. The marching band averages 200 students per year and consists of the 8th–12th grade students who play wind or percussion instruments along with a visual ensemble made up of majorettes, color guard, and the “Showstoppers” kickline. The “Spirit of the South” has traveled to many different destinations throughout the southeast and the nation. Some of the more recent trips and achievements have been multiple trips to Orlando, Philadelphia, and Chicago in 2011 to participate in the St. Patrick's Day Parade. The “Spirit of the South” has twice performed in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, in 1989 and 1994. The band is under the direction of Will F. Waggoner. The assistant band director is Mike McGlynn. The OMS band director is under the direction of BreAnna North. FFA Opelika High School's FFA includes over 300 members. Vibe The Opelika High School vibe is a class that students audition for each position. It features singers, guitar players, bass players, drummers, and a pianist. They perform multiple styles of music from rock to pop and jazz to hip hop. They were a part of the first annual Troy University Open mic event in 2017. They have concerts each year in the lunchroom, as well as in the OPAC (Opelika Performing Arts Center) auditorium. The vibe is under the direction of Patrick Bruce. Notable former students Mallory Hagan, Miss America 2013 Robert L. Howard, awarded the Medal of Honor for his service in the Vietnam War. William S. Key, Major general during World War II Lamar Vickerstaff, suspect in the murder of Amore Wiggins James S. Voss, astronaut who flew in space five times on board the Space Shuttle and International Space Station. Professional baseball players Professional football players References Public high schools in Alabama