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: Christopher Valaski

Hometown: West Chester, OH

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

Honestly, I applied for the Honor Band mostly on a whim. I found the idea to be super cool, but I had zero belief that I would actually be accepted. I remember that I almost didn’t submit my audition, but my parents talked me back into it, saying,” You’ll never know unless you try.”

What part of the trip are you most excited about?

I’m most excited about the float viewing. I have so much respect and admiration for all the effort that goes into making them look as amazing as they do, and I think it will be super fascinating to be able to see the craftsmanship up close.

 

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

By far, my favorite memory was when my marching band got accepted into the semi-finals of the 2019 BOA Grand Nationals. I remember being on the bus, going back to our hotel the day after our first performance. All my friends and I were crowded around one phone, listening to the FloMarching announcement of the bands that had made it in. It was one of the most ecstatic moments for me when I heard them say our band’s name, I truly don’t think I will ever forget it. 

 

What are your post-graduation plans?

Post-graduation, I’m hoping to pursue a political science degree, with my eventual goal to become a lawyer. I really want to work for a group like the ACLU in order to help protect the rights of those less fortunate than myself. 

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

I was able to participate in both the 2018 BOA Indianapolis Super Regional and the 2019 Grand National Championships.

Tell us something unique about yourself.

One unique thing about me is that I love to write my own music. A couple of years ago, I decided to try my hand at writing and I found that I had a knack for it. Ever since then, I’ve been writing and producing music in my bedroom non-stop. I hope maybe one day I’ll be able to leave my own impression on music, just as all of my influences did before me.

List your favorites!

Song or piece of music: A 1000 Times by Hamilton Leithauser & Rostam

Band, Artist, Musical Group, Etc.: Lido

Movie: A Star is Born

TV Show: Doctor Who

Book: The Metamorphoses by Ovid

Dessert: Anything orange-flavored

Place to Visit: Chicago

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 Christopher 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.