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: Josephine Santiago
Hometown: Fort Wayne, IN
Why did you apply to be a member of the Honor Band?
I applied to be a member of the Honor Band because it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! I have only marched in one parade so far on a band trip, and I thought this would be an enjoyable experience.
What part of the trip are you most excited about?
I am very excited to be participating in a musical ensemble again after the cancelation of last year’s competitive season. I also think performing in Disneyland (and getting to spend time in the parks) will be lots of fun too!
What are three things you’ve learned from being involved in your high school music program?
In Homestead’s music program, I have learned to believe in myself and the people surrounding me, how to be a leader in a large group setting, and how to work with others towards the same goals.
To date, what is your favorite memory of being involved in your high school band program?
My favorite memory from my high school music program was getting to perform in Grand National Finals in 2019. It is my favorite performance that we have ever had, and I was very emotional during the ballad and closer. It was the perfect end-of-season show and I’m glad that I could spend my last high school competitive performance with so many of my friends
What activities and clubs are you involved in?
I am involved in Ball State’s Asian Student Union, Ball Bearings Magazine, Campus Band, and also a local handbell choir.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I currently attend Ball State University to study journalism with a concentration in magazine media, and I will be adding a minor in studio art.
Have you participated in any Music for All or Bands of America activities before? If so, which ones?
I went to the Music for All Summer Symposium in 2019, and I have participated in BOA Regionals, Super Regionals, and Grand Nationals competitions for three years with my high school marching band.
Tell us something unique about yourself.
I played cymbals in my school’s first Winter Percussion group!
List your favorites!
Song or piece of music: “That’s What I Want”- Lil Nas X
Band, Artist, Musical Group, etc.: NCT 127
Movie: Howl’s Moving Castle
TV Show: Young Royals
Book: The Song of Achilles
Board Game: Scrabble
Dessert: Cheesecake
Place to visit: Banh Mi Pho Shop
You’re on a deserted island and you can only choose one from each category:
Dessert: Ice Cream
Entertainment: Reading books
Social Media: Instagram
