Music for All’s Bands of America Honor Band will march in The Rose Parade on New Year’s Day 2022 in Pasadena, California. With more than 300 members, this national honor band will represent school band programs across America. Meet the members!
Name: Elizabeth Walden
Hometown: Greenfield, IN
Why did you apply to be a member of the Honor Band?

Two of my cousins had been a part of the band in previous years, and they loved the experience! I heard it was an amazing opportunity and wanted to try it for myself. I also wanted to push myself to see what I am able to accomplish as a musician.

What part of the trip are you most excited about?

I’m most excited about getting an opportunity to meet with many other talented musicians who are as passionate about music as I am.

What are three things you’ve learned from being involved in your high school music program?

I’ve learned to be patient when it comes to practicing and getting better, hard work will almost always beat out natural talent, and life is a lot better with friends by your side.

To date, what is your favorite memory of being involved in your high school music program?

My favorite memory is when we were standing on the field in Lucas Oil Stadium for retreat at state finals. The announcer kept calling out bands’ names, but they hadn’t called ours yet. As they got to third place, we all held our breath. They announced third, and it wasn’t us. Then the final moment of truth came. They called out second place, and it was the only other band that hadn’t been called. We all started crying, cheering, jumping up and down, and hugging because we had just win state finals for the first time in school history.

What activities and clubs are you involved in?

I have been in marching band for four years, winter winds for four years, saxophone choir for four years, jazz band for five years, concert band for five years, and spell bowl for two years.

What are your post-graduation plans?
I plan to study music education at either Belmont or Butler University.

Have you participated in any Music for All or Bands of America activities before? If so, which ones?

Yes, my band competed in both a BOA Regional and Grand Nationals in 2018 and 2019.

Tell us something unique about yourself:

I love Broadway musicals. My favorite is Phantom of the Opera.

List your favorites!

Song or piece of music: Aria by Eugene Bozza

Band, artist, musical group, etc.: Maddie and Tae

Movie: Spiderman Far From Home

TV Show: WandaVision

Book: Tracking a Kidnapper by Valerie Hansen

Board game: Clue

Dessert: Chocolate Lava Cake

Place to visit: Dale Hollow Lake

You’re on a deserted island and you can only choose one from each category:

Dessert: Cake

Entertainment: Playing Board Games

Social Media: TikTok

See Elizabeth in action! If you’ve ever wanted to be there in person for The Rose Parade and the excitement that surrounds it, the BOA VIP Rose Experience is for you! Learn more at marching.musicforall.org/rose/vip.