By WMBD TV
NORMAL – A local high school marching band is headed across the pond for a New Year’s Eve performance.
The Normal Marching Band, made up of students from Normal Community and Normal West High Schools, will perform in London’s New Year’s Eve Parade in front of more than 1 million people.
“I think the kids are ecstatic and they’re really looking forward to exploring a new country and the travel aspect and that sort of thing. And they’re really, really fine and dedicated performers. So I think they’re really excited to share what it is we do here in normal with an international audience. And the vibe is just really positive, right now,” said band director Ryan Budzinksi.
On Wednesday, proud parents looked on as the band performed a preview of their new routine at Horton Field House at Illinois State University.
“So for the London parade, we were looking for something that would be known to our fans back here at home, but also to international audiences. And the timing just seemed to work out really well for us to present some music from the musical ‘Wicked’,” said Budzinski.
They even have matching costumes.
“You’ll get to see a little bit of the yellow brick road on the students’ hats. You’ll get to see some of the pink and green that’s a part of the ‘Wicked’ theme in our costuming and in our flag. The Emerald City is on the banner that says the Normal Marching Band,” explained Budzinski.
Budzinski said they were invited by the London New Year’s Eve Parade committee based on their past performances and reputation.
“I think one of the things that sets us apart from other groups is that because we’re a collaborative effort from two different schools, it really allows us to draw on the expertise and the performance strengths of students from two buildings,” he said.
The band leaves for London on Dec. 27.
