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: Jacob Basil
Hometown: St. Augustine, FL
Why did you apply to be a member of the Honor Band?
I felt that the opportunity to be a part of a band with 300+ talented members from all over the country and perform at huge events with them would be an amazing experience and something that I can keep close to my heart and look back on in the future.
What part of the trip are you most excited about?
All of it—the rehearsals, performances, meeting new people, and making memories that will last a lifetime.
What are three things you’ve learned from being involved in your high school music program?
I could list hundreds, but as a member of our leadership team, I’ve learned more about who I am and what I want in life. I learned that leadership is almost all-around a difficult role to fill. However, through these tough lessons, I’ve learned about myself and leadership, I’ve learned to truly grow into and accept myself and graciously give back to my band program in the way it has given to me.
To date, what is your favorite memory of being involved in your high school music program?
Making finals for the first time in our band’s history at a BOA regional my sophomore year.
What activities and clubs are you involved in?
I’m a member of the National Hispanic Honors Society and I’m a member in my school’s marching band and indoor percussion programs.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I would like to major in music performance or music education and possibly get a master’s degree in whichever of the two I decide.
Have you participated in any Music for All or Bands of America activities before? If so, which ones?
Yes—BOA Orlando 2019, and in 2020, my wind ensemble was going to perform at the MFA Regional Concert Band Festival.
Tell us something unique about yourself.
I play multiple instruments—piano, marimba, vibraphone, clarinet (sort of), along with tenor saxophone, which is my main instrument and what I will be playing in the BOA Honor Band!
List your favorites!
Song or piece of music: Just One Yesterday by Fall Out Boy
Band, Artist, Musical Group, Etc.: My Chemical Romance
Movie: Lord of the Rings: Return of the King
TV Show: Supernatural
Book: Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh
Board Game: Clue
Dessert: Lebanese Baklava
You’re on a deserted island and you can only choose one from each category:
Dessert: Ice Cream
Entertainment: Reading Books
Social Media: Instagram
See Jacob 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.
