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: Gabe Sanders

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

I wanted to grow as a musician and see where else music could take me. When I got the notification about auditions I didn’t waste a single second to submit my video. I am super grateful and excited to be a part of this ensemble and I can’t wait for January to roll around.

What part of the trip are you most excited about?

I’m excited for all of it but I would be lying if I favored the performance and 2 days at Disney more than the rest.

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

Be yourself, the best version of you is you and you should never be ashamed of yourself. Don’t hold yourself back, just go for it and if you fall flat on your face you become stronger from the failure. Preparation and practice, this concept really didn’t stick until I got to band. If you want to put your best foot out the door you better work for it.

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

Grand Nationals for sure. You traveling across the country with some of your best buds to go and put on one of the most spectacular shows on the biggest stage in the marching world is awesome.

What activities and clubs are you involved in?

Goin’ Band (College Marching Band)

What are your post-graduation plans?

Currently I’m living my post gradation plans as a member of the Goin’ Band from Raiderland and studying Cybersecurity at Texas Tech. I plan to minor in music composition and hopefully make wonderful works of music.

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

BOA Austin 17-19, BOA San Antonio super regionals 17-19, BOA Grand Nationals 19

Tell us something unique about yourself.

I like to dance or eat

List your favorites!

Song or piece of music: Sheltering Sky – John Mackey

Band, Artist, Musical Group, etc.: Daft Punk

Movie: Forrest Gump

TV Show: Hell’s Kitchen

Book: Hunger Games

Board Game: Monopoly

Dessert: Ice Cream/Milkshake

Place to visit: Colorado

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

Dessert: Ice Cream

Entertainment: Playing Board Games

Social Media: Instagram