Familiar songs will come to life as the Austin High School band program performs movie scores, Disney songs and other popular music at the 46th annual Band Blast.

It will be held at 7 p.m. at the Knowlton Auditorium on Friday, May 20. The jazz band will have a pre-concert on-stage at 6:30 p.m. as people arrive.

The performance will feature bands from middle school and high school programs.

“It’s our biggest event,” band director Bradley Mariska said. “It’s toe-tapping music.”

Mariska said the performance is their last formal concert and that it’s nice to play lighter music. He also added they try to reach out to people in the community who may not be into the classical music they play at other concerts.

“It’s music anyone can enjoy,” Mariska said. “Music you’re familiar with, like Disney, ‘Star Wars,’ ‘Back to the Future.’”

The band program has been hosting this performance since 1971, Mariska said. The program was renewed with gusto by Mariska four years ago. In collaboration with Ellis Middle School and its director, Nino Tarara, each year’s Band Blast is a celebration for the graduating seniors and a concert the entire community can enjoy.

Tickets are available at the door and cost is $5 for students and $7 for adults. AHS Activity Passes and Austin Music Booster Concert passes are accepted.