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: Matt Wilkinson

Hometown: Naperville, IL

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

I wanted to try something I’ve never done before. I’ll be one of the first in my school to participate, and that makes me proud.

What part of the trip are you most excited about?

I’m most excited about the Rose Parade!

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

  1. I’ve learned the value of teamwork. Our band director wants us to give our best effort for the good of the group.
  2.  I’ve learned that I’m not the only person that matters; the whole group combines to create the show.
  3. Being in the music program has also taught me the importance of time management.

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

I loved playing at Lucas Oil Stadium with my marching band at the BOA Super Regional. It was such a rush to go out and perform to a huge crowd!

What activities and clubs are you involved in?

Marching band, Jazz Studio Orchestra, curricular band, Colts Drum & Bugle Corps

What are your post-graduation plans?
I hope to attend college to study engineering.

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

My marching band participated in the BOA Super Regional in Indianapolis.

Tell us something unique about yourself.

At separate times, I’ve broken each elbow. Both were very similar injuries requiring surgery.

List your favorites!

Song or piece of music: Backrow Politics

Band, Artist, Musical Group, Etc.: Wayne Bergeron

Movie: The Dark Knight

Book: Storm of Steel 

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 Matt 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.