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: Ashley Done
Hometown: St. Peters, MO
Why did you apply to be a member of the Honor Band?
When I was at the Music For All camp, a friend that I made there and I decided we would audition together so we could play with each other some more!
What part of the trip are you most excited about?
I’m very excited to meet everyone for the first time and create unforgettable memories.
What are three things you’ve learned from being involved in your high school music program?
I’ve learned what a sense of friendship should be, I learned how to help others and myself at the same time, and I learned how to make something by doing something I love.Â
To date, what is your favorite memory of being involved in your high school music program?
January of 2020, my junior year, my high school wind ensemble, under the direction of Mr. Andrew Messerli, went to the Missouri Music Educators Association. I was with my good pals Trent and Alex enjoying this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play for directors and people I didn’t even know, some even coming up to us telling us how well we did. I’ve never felt so happy and proud of something I’ve done until that moment in time.
What activities and clubs are you involved in?
I was a part of my high school marching band for the past four years, same with our pep band. I was a part of a woodwind ensemble this past spring and I was able to help with our after-school jazz lab.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I’m going to Northwest Missouri State University as a Music Education major, specializing in saxophone.
Have you participated in any Music for All or Bands of America activities before? If so, which ones?
I’ve been to the jazz portion of the Music for All Camp back in 2019. My high school marching band has gone to the St. Louis Super Regional as well.
 Tell us something unique about yourself.
I try my best to surround myself in music every day, whether it’s trying to compose a little chorale, listening to band compositions and/or charts, practicing my saxophone, or even learning a new instrument.
List your favorites!
Song or piece of music: Rule the Roost by Kris Berg
Band, Artist, Musical Group, Etc: Frank Sinatra
Movie: Pirates of the Caribbean
Book: Dime by E. R. Frank
Dessert: Strawberry Cake
Place to Visit: South Dakota
You’re on a deserted island and you can only choose one from each category:
Dessert: Cake
Entertainment: Reading Books
Social Media: Instagram
See Ashley 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.