More than 200 students from Mount Horeb High School are set to perform in London’s New Year’s Day Parade. This important event follows over a year of dedicated preparation. The students participating include members of the band, choir, and orchestra, highlighting the strength of the school’s music programs.
Months of Preparation for a Historic Performance
Preparation for the trip has extended to 14 months, according to Kellen Dorner, the school’s band director. He noted, “Yeah, this is actually month 14. We’ve been preparing. So it’s been well over a year.” The Mount Horeb music program has a rich tradition of participation in this international parade, which has seen significant growth over the years. In previous years, the school sent around 100 students, while this year’s group totals approximately 210.
The Role of Former Directors in Expanding Opportunities
Dorner acknowledged the contributions of former band director Will Jansen, who played a key role in establishing international travel opportunities for students. Initially starting with just the band, the program now encompasses various music genres, including choir and orchestra.
Multi-Generational Experiences
Many families cherish the cultural significance of this trip. Parent Amy Kellesvig, an alum of Mount Horeb, shared her experience from the early years of the program. She recalled the inaugural trip to Toronto and New York City, which was a fond memory for her. Now, her daughter Leah, a senior and band captain, is eagerly preparing to showcase her talents in London.
- Leah will perform on snare drum in the parade.
- She enjoys auxiliary percussion and mallet instruments in class.
Exploring Historic Sites in the UK
Beyond performing, students will have the opportunity to visit famous landmarks throughout the United Kingdom. Planned visits include:
- Big Ben
- Tower of London
- Buckingham Palace
- Oxford
- Westminster Abbey
The trip is a testament to the Mount Horeb community’s support for diverse educational experiences. Steve Salerno, the superintendent of the Mount Horeb Area School District, emphasized the community’s commitment to fostering well-rounded education, stating, “The kids really value a well-roundedness. The families value a well-roundedness.”
Excitement for the Parade
Students are enthusiastic about showcasing their hard work during the parade. Dorner mentioned that they incorporate a mix of traditional and energetic performances, likening some of their style to that of the University of Wisconsin marching band. They plan to entertain the audience with lively pieces, such as “Build Me Up Buttercup.”
As departure day approaches, the anticipation grows among students. Leah expressed her excitement: “I’m just really excited to see it all come together since we’ve been practicing.” Mount Horeb students are scheduled to march in London’s New Year’s Day Parade on January 1.
