Northern Arizona University’s Lumberjacks Marching Band is making history this Thanksgiving by performing in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. They are the first college band from Arizona to join this iconic event, showcasing their talent on a national stage.
The excitement is palpable. Sebastian Cisneros-Ortega, a drum major and NAU junior, shares, “It has been incredible! I still can’t believe we made it. This is truly magical.” The band’s performance in Central Park was just a preview for the massive audience expected during the parade.
Their journey began 18 months ago when they learned they would be participating. The band has been practicing tirelessly. Director Stephen Meyer, who previously led a high school band in the parade back in 2009, emphasizes the importance of this opportunity. He believes it recognizes the hard work of the students. “It’s about giving our students chances that not every band gets,” he explains.
Recent data shows that participation in events like the Macy’s Parade can boost student morale and community pride. A survey conducted by the National Association of Music Merchants found that 92% of music students feel more confident when performing.
Sebastian highlights the growth in their audience at Central Park. “The crowd kept getting bigger, and it hit us that they came to see what Arizona offers!”
During the parade, NAU will perform three songs and will also take part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Wicked star Cynthia Erivo. This experience not only elevates their musical careers but also teaches valuable life lessons about perseverance and teamwork.
As Meyer put it, “Hard work pays off. Anything is possible!” The band stands as a testament to dedication, proving that with enough effort, dreams can indeed become reality.
