BLOOMSBURG, COLUMBIA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — A local high school marching band needs help to take part in a once-in-a-lifetime performance, all the way in Hawaii.
Practice makes perfect for the Bloomsburg High School Marching Band.
“Late night rehearsals, we have band camp which is two weeks on the field just in the hot sun. Even just practicing for the concert band takes so much time,” says Ramona Miron.
That perfection leading to recognition, winning its conference state championship in November, and shortly after, getting selected to perform at the Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade in Hawaii.
But to get there costs a pretty penny.
“It winds up being about $2,600 per student. That covers the flight, the hotel, the tours, and access to the museums, and some of their meals,” says Rachel Troychock.
Times that by 60 for the number of students attending, and then including costs of bringing the instruments, they’re looking at around $200,000.
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“We have to practice, we have to put in the time, we have to put in the effort to fundraise… and the dedication of the students is key to all of that success,” says Siena Fritsky.
Fundraising has been around the clock, with the community support pouring in.
“It means everything. I mean the support that I have seen over the years from when I first joined to now is honestly incredible,” says Isabelle Lovelace.
The Bloomsburg band is the only one chosen to play in December from the Keystone State.
“We’re representing the veterans of Pennsylvania, we’re representing Pennsylvania as a whole,” says Henry Turbough.
For some of the band members, it’s more than just a performance.
“My great-grandmother’s cousin, he was in the navy, he was aboard the U.S.S. Arizona, one of the first casualties,” says Ben Chyko.
“It just helps them realize that they’re not forgotten for their sacrifices for this country, and they won’t be forgotten no matter what, as long as we keep living on and telling their story.” says Bradyn Barnes.
The motivation of telling those stories shining through their music, with hours of preparation ahead.
“Making sure the students are ready to perform this music, both in the parade, but also in the mass band and chorus that’s going to be combined with the military band that’s stationed there and the other bands that show up to this parade,” says Dante Marmo.
The Bloomsburg High School Marching Band has raised about a quarter of its $200,000 goal. For more information, go to their website.
