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!

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

I applied to be a member of the Honor Band to experience what it would be like to play in a large ensemble which is something I have never experienced. I also have the pleasure to meet so many new people from across the country which is truly an experience I cannot get elsewhere.

What part of the trip are you most excited about?

I kind of just want to say In-and-Out which we do not have here in Illinois, but the part I am very excited about is marching in a parade I have watched on TV and thought how it would be so cool to be in it rather than watching.

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

The one of the three things I have learned from my high school program is practice makes permanent not perfect. Another is size truly does not matter. It’s how much heart you have in your performance. Lastly, do not be afraid to try something. I got drum major after my freshman year simply because I put in for it and it was the best decision I made in high school.

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

My favorite memory from my five years in marching band is cutting off the last note at BOA Indianapolis Super Regionals my senior year. It was a mix of sadness that it is now all over, but also one of hopefulness as one chapter of my life is done and now I forge a new one.

What activities and clubs are you involved in?

So many. As previously mentioned, I have been in marching band since my eighth grade year. I also participate in my school’s show choir with two years as a singer/dancer and two years as a combo member. I am secretary of my class and media specialist for student council. I am treasurer of my school’s National Honor Society. I am captain of my school’s varsity scholastic/quiz bowl team. I was a member of my school’s robotics team until it folded before my senior year. I play in my county’s youth symphony orchestra on soprano saxophone.

What are your post-graduation plans?

My post graduation plans are currently undecided, but I am looking into all music options wherever I go.

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

I have participated in four Super Regionals competitions with two being in St. Louis and two in Indianapolis. I attended the Music for All camp in Muncie, IN in 2019 and planned on attending in 2020 and 2021 but those were cancelled.

Tell us something unique about yourself.

I grow many different hot peppers which include but not limited to: Carolina reapers, ghost peppers, Trinidad maruga scorpions, and many more. My goal one day is to make a hot sauce that gets onto the YouTube series Hot Ones with Sean Evans.

List your favorites!

Song or piece of music: The Planets

Band, Artist, Musical Group, etc.: Earth, Wind & Fire

Movie: Forrest Gump

TV Show: The Sopranos

Book: Ready Player One

Board Game: Ticket to Ride

Dessert: Butterscotch-dipped cone

Place to visit: State Parks in Illinois

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

Dessert: Cake

Entertainment: Reading books

Social Media: TikTok