GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- A combined marching band made up of scholars from five Grand Rapids Public Schools high schools was awarded “Best High School Band” at the Mackinaw Memorial Day Parade, which is the largest Memorial Day parade in Michigan.
More than 80 high school band scholars from CA Frost Environmental Science Middle High School, GR Montessori Middle High School, Southwest Middle High School, Ottawa Hills High School and Union High School joined forces to create one unified GRPS marching band. Dressed in coordinated uniforms accented with plume colors representing each school, scholars captivated both parade organizers and spectators with their performance.
"We are incredibly proud of the outstanding leadership shown by directors Nathan Weber (GR Montessori), Andrew LaJoie (CA Frost), Matthew Palmieri (Southwest MHS), and Peyton Berce (Ottawa Hills HS), as well as the remarkable dedication and talent of our student musicians," said GRPS Director of Fine Arts Dan Van Til.
As part of the recognition, GRPS will receive a commemorative plaque from the Mackinaw Memorial Day Parade Committee honoring the achievement.
