MADISON NJ - The Madison High School Marching Dodgers will host its annual “Tournament of Bands” marching band competition on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at its very own Ted Monica Stadium at Twombly Field at Madison High School.
In its 16th competitive season, the Madison High School Marching Dodgers band, under the direction of Program Director Russ Batsch, will perform its 2026 show, “Meet me in Central Park,” which it has performed at competitions around the state. The event will also include 14 visiting bands from around New Jersey: Belleville High School, Bloomfield High School, Chatham High School, Governor Livingston High School, Henry P Becton Reg High School, Hoboken High School, Kearny High School, Lodi High School, Newton High School, Notre Dame Green Pond HS, Rutherford High School, Weehawken High School, West Deptford High School, and West Morris Central High School. “With fantastic marching bands from across New Jersey, this is a show you won't want to miss,” said Director Batsch. “It's going to be an awesome day to see some amazing performances.”
The event is open to the public. Gates open at 11:30 a.m. The event will kick off with the National Anthem played by the Madison Junior School Band at 11:45 a.m., and the competition will start at 12:00 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for senior citizens and students — and free for children 10 and younger who wear Madison High School’s colors, maroon and gold.
Food and beverages will be available for purchase at “the Hut” located next to the school’s football field, as well as a bake sale tent.
More about the Marching Dodgers
The Marching Dodgers have appeared in local parades in Madison, Morristown, Boonton and Millburn. The group has also performed on Main Street in Walt Disney World in Orlando, and will return there next May.
The Marching Dodgers have a rigorous schedule. In addition to practices during the week, the Marching Dodgers have a full performance schedule. They entertain at home games, and travel with the Madison Dodgers football team to away games to play as a pep band in the stands, supporting the team and rallying the fans. The band kicked off its competition season Saturday, Sept. 21st, at Hunterdon Central Regional High School and the season will run through the beginning of November.
The Marching Dodgers Booster Club and the Madison Marching Dodgers are inviting the public to come to the event on Sunday, October 4th, or another performance during the season to demonstrate support, and most importantly, enjoy the show.
Photo courtesy of Christine Cullen