WHITTIER – Eight Whittier Union students have been selected to join the Pasadena City College Honor Band and perform in the 131st Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year’s Day 2020.

Marching in every Rose Parade since 1930, the band consists of PCC Lancer Marching Band members and exceptional high school musicians auditioned from throughout Southern California. Over 600 high school students audition each year for the 200-plus spots in the band, pageantry and Herald Trumpets.

Selected from the California High School Condor Entertainment Unit were Kaelee Chavez (clarinet), Seth Diaz (tenor sax), Mark Gonzalez (trombone), Roberto Haro (trumpet), Myriam Hernandez (color guard/tall flag), Erica Leal (color guard/banner) and Chloe Martin (color guard/banner). Trumpet player Hector Torres will represent Santa Fe High School’s Chieftain Tribe.

“The amount of talent, skill and precision that our student musicians and performers have is incredible, and this is the perfect stage for them to showcase what they are made,” Superintendent Martin Plourde said. “We are so proud of their accomplishments and dedication and are thrilled to cheer them on.”

Members began practice on Nov. 3 and will continue every Sunday in November and December, as well as almost every day during winter break. They will memorize and perfect five pieces during the group and sectional rehearsals and train around the hills at Dodger Stadium for the 5.5-mile trek.

The Tournament of Roses Parade is broadcast in 200 territories and countries.

PHOTO CAPTIONS
121619_WUHSD_TORBAND1: California High School’s Kaelee Chavez (clarinet), Seth Diaz (tenor sax), Mark Gonzalez (trombone), Roberto Haro (trumpet), Myriam Hernandez (color guard/tall flag), Erica Leal (color guard/banner) and Chloe Martin (color guard/banner) will perform in the 2020 Tournament of Roses Parade.

121619_WUHSD_TORBAND2: Trumpet player Hector Torres will represent Santa Fe High School’s Chieftain Tribe when he performs in the 2020 Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year’s Day.