Carson High School's Blue Thunder marching band received first place in the Damonte Ranch Marching Band Invitational on Nov. 2. Students are fundraising to cover the costs of travel, lodging and other expenses for their trip to Chicago to participate in a Thanksgiving Day Parade on Nov. 28.
Celebrating two first-place finishes and other trophies from the Damonte Ranch Marching Band Invitational in Reno Nov. 2, the Carson High School Blue Thunder Band will extend the marching season and continue to showcase its talents before thousands of spectators and millions of television views at the historic Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade, the second largest Thanksgiving parade in the country Nov. 28.
Selected from a competitive pool of applicants, the Carson High Blue Thunder Marching Band’s participation highlights its outstanding musicianship, dedication and community spirit. Students will march along Chicago’s famous State Street, performing crowd-pleasing numbers under the direction of Carson High School’s Band Director Nick Jacques.
“It’s an incredible honor for our students to participate in one of the nation’s largest and most prestigious Thanksgiving parades,” Jacques said. “This opportunity reflects their hard work and passion for music, and we’re thrilled to represent our school and community on such a prominent stage.”
Celebrating its 90th anniversary and a Chicago tradition since 1934, the parade attracts bands, floats, dance troupes and entertainers from across the country. This year, the parade will be aired live on
Pluto TV, Paramount’s free streaming service, for families who wish to spectate from home.
The Carson High Blue Thunder Marching Band has been preparing extensively, rehearsing its music and choreography to bring a high-energy, memorable performance to the parade. The ensemble will perform a selection of music chosen to capture the spirit of the Thanksgiving holiday and showcase its diverse musical talent.
Before it focuses on Chicago, the team will prepare for its final marching season performance at the Sierra Band Crusade (Northern Nevada Championships) happening Saturday, Nov. 9 at Mackay Stadium at the University of Nevada, Reno. Following championships, students also will audition for Honors Band Tuesday, Nov. 12 before they tune in on their Thanksgiving Day performance.
Although the recent accolades and prestigious invitation to march in Chicago is a remarkable honor for the band, its students and the community, it comes with a unique challenge: raising funds to make the trip possible. To cover travel, lodging and performance-related expenses, the band is aiming to raise $20,000. It already has raised more than $12,400 but invites individuals and corporations to help sponsor contributions to assist with student travel fees. Additional money will assist in the purchase of new marching band uniforms for next year.
Donations can be made until Tuesday, Nov. 12 to the band booster club
directly online. Corporate sponsorships are also welcome with opportunities for local businesses to partner with the band and receive recognition for their support.
