FONTANA, CA – Henry J. Kaiser High School’s Catamount Pride Band will showcase their skills before a national audience after being selected to represent Congresswoman Norma Torres (District 35) at the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington D.C. on May 27.

This event checks off a milestone goal for Kaiser High Band Director Robert Ronquillo and adds to the group’s rich history of excellence and performing on a national stage. Kaiser’s full band played at the annual Rose Parade® in 2019, while senior David Mireles (marching snare drum) and sophomore Liliana Lobo (euphonium) were also selected to march with the Pasadena City College’s Tournament of Roses Honor Band this January.

“This is yet another banner achievement for our band, which has enjoyed incredible success in the last few years,” Kaiser High Principal Dr. Christopher Hollister said. “The band continues to take its talent and grit to new heights, and this accomplishment is one I, and the rest of the Kaiser community, take great pride in.”

The National Memorial Day Parade serves as an annual tribute to fallen American heroes through personal narratives and moving performances, honoring their memory and underscoring the cost of freedom. Kaiser will perform three pieces at the parade, including John Philip Sousa’s “The Loyal Legion,” Victor Lopez’s “Rhythm Madness,” and Jim Peterik’s “Vehicle.”

“Being nominated by the congresswoman is a great privilege and honor,” Kaiser High Band Director Roberto Ronquillo said. “As a young band director, this is something I didn’t anticipate this early in my career, but my students demonstrate musical excellence and are excited to perform on a national stage.”

The National Memorial Day Parade, hosted by actor Anthony Anderson and sports commentator Joe Buck, is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. on May 27. The parade will be broadcast live online and on television.

“We are immensely proud of the Kaiser High Catamount Pride Band for their selection to represent District 35 at the National Memorial Day Parade,” Superintendent Miki R. Inbody said. “Their selection to perform at the National Memorial Day Parade is a testament to their hard work and commitment. We are incredibly proud of them and wish them the best as they represent our District and community on a national stage.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

FUSD_BAND1: Henry J. Kaiser High School’s Catamount Pride Band has been chosen to represent Congresswoman Norma Torres (District 35) at the National Memorial Parade in Washington D.C. on May 27.

FUSD_BAND2: Henry J. Kaiser High School’s Catamount Pride Band will perform at the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington D.C. on May 27, continuing the band’s rich history of excellence and performing on a national stage. The band performed at the annual Rose Parade® in 2019.

FUSD_BAND3: Henry J. Kaiser High School’s Catamount Pride Band Director Robert Ronquillo will guide his group through the performance of three songs during the National Memorial Parade in Washington D.C. on May 27.