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: Jared Taylor

Hometown: Morton, IL

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

One of the SWAG leaders at Summer Symposium who was on my floor had told us about the experience, and it made me want to take part in the Honor Band. He said that the experience was one of a kind and to not miss out on it, and I definitely wanted to be a part of it.

What part of the trip are you most excited about?

I’m very excited to make new friends that I wouldn’t have been able to meet prior to this experience.

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

From my high school music program, I’ve learned that teamwork makes the dream work. We all work towards the same goal and are all passionate about it as well. I’ve learned how to be encouraging towards not only myself but my friends and peers. Lastly, I’ve learned to cherish every moment. All the hard practices and performances allowed me to create cherished memories with my friends that have helped me grow as a person.  

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

My favorite memory to date was marching my school’s 2018 program at Grand Nationals in Indianapolis alongside my friends.

What activities and clubs are you involved in?

In school, I’m involved with our Male A Cappella group, the Bum Bums. I’m a part of the plays and musicals, both acting and in our live pit. I’m also in our jazz band, composer’s guild, and marching band. Outside of school, I am a part of Drum Corp International as a trumpet with Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps.

What are your post-graduation plans?

At the moment, I plan on going to college for trumpet performance 

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

I’ve done Summer Symposium both in 8th grade and freshman year of high school. 

Tell us something unique about yourself.

I love to write music whenever I have free time.

List your favorites!

Song or piece of music: “The Frozen Cathedral” by John Mackey

Movie: Saving Private Ryan

Book: The Eragon Series

 

Place to Visit: Anywhere in Europe

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

Dessert: Ice Cream

Entertainment: Board Games

Social Media: Instagram

See Jared 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.