Chile school war bands clinch regional titles, set for national championship

The Banda de Guerra of Colegio Río Loa in Calama captured first place at the Regional School Bands Championship held in Antofagasta, earning the right to represent the Antofagasta region at the upcoming national competition. Carabineros officer Sub‑officer Claudio Hidalgo praised the students, noting the group consists of youths aged 13 to 17 and emphasizing the community‑building role of the event.

In a separate contest in Iquique, the Colegio Salesiano Don Bosco emerged victorious in the fourth Regional War Bands Competition. The school will advance to the national tournament scheduled for September in the Metropolitan region. Carabineros officials highlighted the event’s contribution to stronger ties between the police force and local communities.

Both regional contests, organized by Carabineros, showcase discipline, teamwork and respect for national symbols among Chilean school students, and they serve as qualifiers for the nationwide championship where schools from across the country will compete.