The Rose Parade is an iconic tradition held in Pasadena, California on Colorado Boulevard. This event welcomes the new year with a procession of brightly colored floats, accompanied by musicians with an even brighter spirit.

This year, eight of our Mustangs will join the Parade’s musical legacy. Congratulations to Brandon Coluna (Trombone), Cameron Davenport (Alto Saxophone), Jacob Gu (Trombone), Zachary Lovell (Trumpet), Bradford Teng (Baritone), Eddie Valdemar (Trumpet), Ethan Villasenor (Trumpet), and Madelyn Yem (Color Guard/Banner). These students will be marching in the Tournament of Roses Honor Band. This band is led by instructor Kyle Luck of Pasadena City College, and composed of the Lancer Marching Band and distinguished high school musicians/color guard members.

These students described the news as a wave of relief and adrenaline.

“Being able to march in the rose parade is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I’m excited to be able to experience it. Counting down the days until New Years.” Says baritone player Bradford Teng.

ERHS band is a prestigious program, with four concert bands (wind ensemble, symphonic winds, symphonic band, and cadet band), marching band, and jazz band. The selected musicians have diverse musical capabilities, being members of both concert and marching bands.

Among the thrill of performing is the excitement of experiencing new music.

Trombone player Brandon Coluna says, “I feel great to be able to perform. I get to meet musicians from all over the world and see how their style of play is.”

The students are working hard to prepare for the big day. Their instructor is hoping to encompass marching into their rehearsals by December, allowing the students to build up stamina and endurance.

Bradford Teng remarks, “Total, our rehearsals will sum up about 25 miles.” This is over four times the length of Colorado Boulevard (which is only five and a half miles). Maybe band ought to be considered a sport as well as an art.