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: Ashton Hale

Hometown: Irvine, KY

Why did you apply to be a member of the Honor Band?

I applied because I think it is important to take every opportunity I get and to try to be the best musician I can be.

What part of the trip are you most excited about?

I’m most excited to explore a part of the country that I would have never even dreamed of going to.

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

Don’t have an ego, because there’s always someone that is better than you. Always try your best to succeed. If you fail to succeed, then make the next try even grander and bigger than the last.

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

My favorite memory is performing at Grand Nationals two years ago with my marching band. It was my band’s first time going to Grand Nationals.

What activities and clubs are you involved in?

Marching band, concert band, jazz band, pep band, JROTC, and the JROTC color guard.

What are your post-graduation plans?

I haven’t decided yet. 

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

Yes I have. My marching band performed at Grand Nationals in Indianapolis and we also performed in Johnson City.

Tell us something unique about yourself.

My favorite thing to do in my spare time is to research world history. I also absolutely love creating maps.

List your favorites!

Song or piece of music: 1812 Overture

Band, Artist, Musical Group, Etc.: Queen

Movie: Indiana Jones Series

TV Show: The Office

Book: Any book about history

Board Game: Chess

Dessert: Cake

Place to Visit: Historical places

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

Dessert: Cake

Entertainment: Playing Board Games

Social Media: Instagram

See Ashton 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.