Lake Hamilton High School band set to perform in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – The Lake Hamilton High School marching band is used to performing at competitions and football games, but this year they’re going to have an experience like no other.

The band will be performing at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, one of the biggest stages in the nation.

Drum majors Chloe Hayes and Serenity McNeely say it’s a once in a lifetime.

“I think just being with all the people that were with band, just that big family big group, it’s going to be so uniting,” Hayes said.

Director of Bands John Shultz said it’s no walk in the park to get there.

“It’s a pretty extensive application process,” Shultz noted. “We had to apply three times.”

They’re performing a Wild West show for competitions but for the parade, it’ll be a different pitch-perfect performance.

“That same genre, same feel aesthetic, and create a country Christmas for Macy’s,” Shultz said.

Getting all 172 band members from Hot Springs to New York City costs a pretty penny.

“I know there are a couple of people who are worried about funding, and not being able to go,” Hayes said.

The band is currently drumming up ways to make sure everyone makes it.

“It’s very important in our band program to feel like a family,” McNeely

They’re thankful for the support they’ve felt from their school and community so far.

“Being able to just represent our band in such a big city, I can’t wait, I’m so excited,” McNeely said.

For more information on supporting the band, visit ThePowerBand. o rg .

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