"The parade was the most organized event I have ever been a part of in my 14 years of teaching. From picking up the boxed lunches to unloading, from pictures to step-off, there was constant communication from Music Celebrations Staff members. Your staff was professional, friendly and complimentary. They answered all questions and provided guidance during the day. The parade experience itself was wonderful. Watching our students perform down Constitution Avenue in front of thousands of patriotic, flag waving Americans was a thrill I will remember for the rest of my life."
Evan Rogovin, Band Director, Florida
"Marching in the Parade was an enjoyable and memorable experience. It is a tough call to name one highlight – all of us were really moved by the wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown in Arlington Cemetery, the concert in front of the Capitol, and the parade itself. There were lots of tears from most of our group! Really, everyone got a lot out of the whole trip. Adults and students alike were very impressed."
Alli Coyle, Band Director, Arizona
"I was very pleased with the parade. The event was very well organized and the parade officials were there when we needed help. My personal highlight was that while we were playing I looked across the band and saw the White House. I should have briefly stopped the band to have them look around and enjoy the sights during the parade. The Music Celebrations staff was very organized and prompt in answering my questions throughout the planning process. The onsite staff was very helpful as well. They made sure they introduced themselves to us and made sure we had everything we needed. I am looking forward to working with Music Celebrations again."
Troy Cronkhite, Smithville High School Band
"The intensity in our group sure gave me chills up my back. I think they were all proud of themselves for being there and performing in front of Washington, D.C. fans. The thrill and nerves of how they felt marching in the National Memorial Day Parade will be in their memories for rest of their lives. We might be small, but we put on pretty good sound. In 34 years of my teaching career, this is the best experience I had with the band trip."
- Tom Dillon, Band Director, New Mexico
"What an incredible way to end our year! The trip to Washington, D.C. for the 4th of July National Parade and related concerts is the most wonderful educational experience our students and staff have ever had. What a treat! Our community is small but very supportive of what their band does. We must be careful stewards of our limited funds. The trip to Washington, D.C., both educationally and musically, was worth every penny. Again, thank you wonderful people for all the great memories.
- Pat Ellison, Band Director, Arkansas
"The North Pulaski High School Band has had the privilege of representing the state of Arkansas in the Independence Day Parade on three occasions. Each time has been better than the one before. Words cannot describe the feeling of marching down Constitution Avenue on the Fourth of July. Flags are waving, crowds are screaming, bands are playing and everyone is proud to be an American. Surrounded by historical sites, I get chill bumps and tears in my eyes as I proudly watch my students experience the memory of a lifetime."
- Karen Dismuke, Band Director, Arkansas
"Words cannot express my appreciation for the hard work and organization of Music Celebrations International in making our trip to Washington, D.C. so enjoyable and memorable. It was such an honor to be involved (in the Parade) with so many outstanding bands from across the country. This will be an unforgettable, and possibly, a life changing event in the lives of many young people who were involved in this important event in the history of our country as we celebrate and honor 'The Greatest Generation'. Thank you again for allowing us to be a part of this (Parade), and to represent our school, community, and our great state of Oklahoma!"
- Jim Winkle, Band Director, Oklahoma
"The Forsan High School Band's trip to Washington D.C. was simply amazing. Everything was simply first class by your company. All the parents and students are still talking about the trip. The Parade was the most awesome thing I have ever been a part of. When the band made that first turn at the National Archives building and part of the half million people that lined the streets started clapping and yelling, I had a tingling from my toes to the top of my head. It was a very emotional moment that caught me off-guard. Thanks so much for making our trip to Washington D.C. a trip of a lifetime. We would definitely work with Music Celebrations on any future trips of this magnitude."
- Jim Rhodes, Band Director, Texas
"What were the highlights of the tour? Being a part of the Wreath Laying Ceremony at Arlington and seeing all the sights and seeing the students in awe of their nation. The Parade was awesome with all the people applauding the students while playing. I think you are great and I will recommend you to my friends."
- Mike Estep, Band Director, Kentucky
"Performing at the WWII Memorial was really special, as was the wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Both were events that my students will never forget. The parade was good - other than the extreme heat. The thing that made the whole tour work was our Tour Guide. He was absolutely outstanding. He was extremely knowledgeable and very friendly and entertaining to the kids. His help was invaluable throughout our time in DC. The hotel and meals were excellent. I was very pleased with how everything was set up for us."
- Justin Love, Band Director, Kansas
