Syracuse, NY (WKBW) -- The West Seneca West Marching Band captured the Governor’s Cup Sunday in the New York State Field Band Competition at Syracuse University’s Carrier Dome. The band cinched the state title in the Large School 3 Division, competing against groups from across New York State.

This year’s show, “Fire!,” including arrangements of “Summoning the Fire!” by John Blickwedehl, the marching band’s director, and Robert Mazierski, “Ritual Fire Dance” by Manuel DeFalla, “Zarabanda” by Karl Jenkins and “Firebird” by Igor Stravinsky, has been well-received by judging panels and fans across both Pennsylvania and New York.

Prior to performing Sunday afternoon in Syracuse, the band competed Saturday evening in the Lakeshore Marching Band Association Championships in Erie, Pa., and also left with top honors. The West Seneca West Marching Band, which moved up to Class AAA this year, placed second in the LMBA finals, also cinching the caption award for best woodwinds.

“I'm exceedingly proud of our kids, parents and staff,” said Blickwedehl. “We knew from the start that this was a special group but I cannot believe how far we have come together in such a short time. This is something that the entire West Seneca community can be and should be proud of. Our kids are champions, both on and off the field.”

The 58-member West Seneca West Marching Band is in its 13th year of competition and comprises students in grades six through 12 from both the East and West sides of town. It often competes with bands across New York and Pennsylvania - some with as many as 195 members. In the fall of 2008, the band was named LMBA Class AA champions and took second place in the New York State Field Band Conference, Large School 3 Division.

In December of this year, the band will get a chance to bring this show to yet another competitive venue as it travels to Memphis, Tenn. To perform at the Liberty Bowl. During that trip, West Seneca’s group will compete against bands across the United States in the Bowl Games of America Field Band Competition.