NOTTINGHAM High School's big band swept away all before them to win a top award.
The 21 musicians attended the National Concert Band Festival at the Birmingham Conservatoire.
Competing against teams from across the country, they picked up the platinum accolade for the best school band.
"It was a terrific achievement, one I've been looking to get for a long time," said Gerald Douglas, head of brass music at the school.
"I can retire happy now. I've been running the band for some 30 years and this is the best achievement to date."
The team, whose members range from 13 to 18 years old, has gone on several tours including trips to New York and the Rhineland.
They said winning the regional heats of the festival to reach the finals in Birmingham was the most memorable achievement. That was until they did so well in the finals.
In the contest they played 20 minutes of their signature modern jazz combination, impressing judges.
Saxophonist Henry Longstaff, 17, said: "We were all very nervous when we went to Birmingham. But we played very well. It was really enjoyable.
"We were up against some strong opposition. So when we found out we had won the platinum award we were delighted. We didn't expect it."
It wasn't just the team award that the boys came back with.
David Barron, 17, who plays the alto saxophone, won the soloist award for his rendition during their set.
He said: "That was great. Winning the team award was a real thrill. But winning the solo award was a nice extra to take home as well.
"I've been part of the band for three years now. Everyone in the team gets on really well. There's a good spirit, which helps."
Mr Douglas added: "This is the competition that the bands really want to win. That is what it made it so pleasing.
"I'm very proud of what they have achieved."
