Discover the New England Honor Marching Band: Your Path to the 136th Rose Parade!
Are you ready to be part of something extraordinary? The New England Honor Band invites you to join their ranks as they prepare to dazzle the world during the 136th Rose Parade in Pasadena, California. This iconic event, steeped in history and floral enchantment, promises an unforgettable experience for musicians who dream of marching to the beat of excellence.
Who Are We? The New England Honor Band isn't just a band; it's a symphony of passion, talent, and camaraderie. Imagine being part of a collective that represents the six New England states: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Our ensemble comprises over 300 dedicated marching band members, each bringing their unique musical voice to the grand stage.
Why Participate?
- Musical Mastery: Whether you wield a trumpet, saxophone, tuba, or drumsticks, the New England Honor Band is your canvas. Under the guidance of our esteemed director, Jon Waters, you'll refine your skills, harmonize with fellow musicians, and create magic.
- Southern California Adventure: Picture yourself spending six unforgettable nights in the heart of Southern California. Amid palm trees, ocean breezes, and starlit nights, you'll bond with fellow bandmates, explore vibrant cities, and soak in the creative energy that permeates the Golden State.
- Rose Parade Glory: On January 1st, 2025, as dawn breaks over Pasadena, you'll step onto the hallowed streets. Adorned in crisp uniforms, emblazoned with state emblems, you'll march along the 5 1/2-mile route down Colorado Boulevard. The world will witness your precision, synchronized steps, and the joy etched on your faces.
News and Updates
Participate
The New England Honor Band will be an ensemble comprised of high school and college musicians from the six-state New England area.
Student musicians are able to participate after receiving a nomination and completing the audition and application requirements.
Directors and staff, click the button below to submit a nomination form for your student(s). Once submitted, the nominated student will receive application/audition information and additional travel details via email.
Participation information for directors, staff, and chaperones will be released May 1. Submit the interest form below to receive updates.
Highlights
136th Rose Parade: March in the 136th Rose Parade, past more than 800,000 spectators while more millions watch on TV. Join bands from around the world and country, equestrian units and flowered floats as they glide down Colorado Boulevard and the 5.5 mile parade route. Enjoy a famed In-N-Out Burger provided by the Tournament of Roses after the parade.
Tournament of Roses Bandfest: Perform with specially-invited bands from around the country at Pasadena City College. Presented by Remo, this thrilling twoday field show exhibition will showcase your musicianship and talents for marching band fans and boosters alike.
Disneyland: March along with Mickey Mouse and friends for a magical performance through the streets of Disneyland as crowds cheer you and the New England Honor Band. A truly unforgettable experience.
Float Viewing: See the floats up close to appreciate the design, workmanship, and hundreds of hours that go into their creation.
Hollywood and Santa Monica Beach and Pier Experience: Experience the glamour of Hollywood. Explore the Walk of Fame and other iconic landmarks, including the iconic Hollywood sign and spectacular views of Los Angeles. Then take in the sand, sun and endless waves at the beach and Santa Monica's famous pier with its Ferris Wheel, roller coaster, vintage carousel and the arcades.
Leadership Workshop with Scott Lang: Gain insights from a seasoned leader. Scott Lang's wisdom will inspire you to lead with purpose and passion.
Rehearsals: Rehearse each morning with fellow musicians to prepare for the performances with afternoons saved for sightseeing and Tournament of Roses experiences.
Team
Jon Waters
Director
Rod Miller
Associate Director
Robert Bergeron
Assistant Director
Samantha Hackenson
Color Guard InstructorBand Member Tour Package
Trip Includes
- Membership in the New England Honor Band
- Six nights first class hotel accommodations. Quad occupancy is standard, student triple and double room packages available at an additional cost.
- Ground transportation in California to and from all events.
- All meals beginning with dinner on Dec 27th and ending with breakfast on Jan 2nd
- Tournament of Roses Bandfest and Rose Parade participation
- All-Band Dinner Dance Party
- Leadership Development Session
- One-Day Disneyland ticket with parade performance
- Official New England Honor Band group photo at the Rose Bowl
- Daily rehearsals and instruction
- New England Honor Band (NEHB) uniform, NEHB t-shirt, NEHB hat, and NEHB trading pin
- Private security at the hotel nightly
Arrival and Departure from the Los Angeles Area
Airfare is not included in the Member Tour Package. Each tour member is responsible for travel to and from Los Angeles. Participants must arrive by 2:00pm December 27, 2024. Departure day will be the morning of January 2, 2025. Shuttle transfers will be provided from/to LAX and Burbank airports.
Tournament of Roses President's Visit
All members will be invited to the flag presentation by Tournament of Roses President Ed Morales during his visit to New England in late August. More details to follow.
Onsite Band Management/Supervision
The New England Honor Band team will include both professional teaching staff and chaperones to ensure the safety and well-being of the students. Chaperones will be selected by the New England Honor Band team and will be present at all events per the itinerary. More information regarding chaperone selection will be available in early summer.
Package Pricing
Four performers sharing a room: $2,599 per person
Three performers sharing a room: $2,699 per person
Two performers sharing a room: $2,849 per person
Candidate Details
ELIGIBILITY
Eligible candidates must be recommended by a music educator and be enrolled in Grades 9-12 for the 2024-2025 school year. College music majors who are freshman, sophomores and juniors and seniors for the 2024-2025 school year can also apply. Candidates must have the stamina to finish the 5.5 mile long parade route.
All candidates will be contacted to complete the online application form. The first wave of invitations will be sent out by April 15th.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Once nominated, eligible candidates must complete an online application. The application will include candidate information, instrumentation, and additional requirements for members of the New England Honor Band.
Applications will be reviewed when submitted, and invitations will be sent out to selected candidates. Members will then register for and make deposits via the online registration site.
STAFF & CHAPERONES
Participation information for directors, staff, and chaperones will be released May 1st.
Complete the Interest Form above to receive updates.
FAMILY & FRIENDS
Family and friends of the New England Honor Band Members can also share in this amazing experience. Six (6) night packages will be available in early summer, once band members are selected. Please note that the Family & Friends trip will not be staying at the same hotel as the band.