Mars Area High School Marching Band took first place in the Norwin Marching Band Festival, held at Norwin High School (North Huntingdon, Pa.).

The Fightin’ Planets earned a combined score of 74.85, earning high honors for music and general effect as well as the band’s first win since moving to Class AAA competition in 2015-2016. In addition, the band placed third overall at the festival.

The band’s 2017-2018 show, “Beethoven: Artistry in Motion,” features several of Ludwig van Beethoven’s greatest hits, including his “Fifth Symphony,” “Fur Elise,” “Pathetique Sonata” (from Opus 13, Movement II) and “Ode to Joy” (from Ninth Symphony).

The band will next compete at the Moon Area Marching Band Festival to be held from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 23, at Moon Area High School. For more information, visit www.pimba.org.