BAINBRIDGE, Ga. (WCTV) – The Bainbridge High School Band is in New York City Tuesday for its 19th national appearance, marking a milestone moment as students march in the city\u2019s St. Patrick\u2019s Day Parade for the first time.<\/p>\n
For senior Cameron Whigham, the trip represents years of dedication. He began playing the clarinet in fifth grade and is grateful to march on a national stage.<\/p>\n
\u201cNew York is this awesome place,\u201d Whigham said. \u201cIf you live anywhere in America, then you know New York. Getting the chance to go at such a young age when you live in Bainbridge, Georgia, such a rural town, it\u2019s an opportunity you can\u2019t give up.\u201d<\/p>\n
Preparing for the parade has required effort. Students have practiced extensively, including outdoor marching and conditioning to handle the route along Fifth Avenue.<\/p>\n
\u201cA lot of practice, even outside with marching and doing conditioning for the trip,\u201d Whigham said. \u201cWe want to get used to walking the distance.\u201d<\/p>\n
Band director James Sewell said the experience goes beyond music, teaching students valuable life skills.<\/p>\n
\u201cI hope they learn a lot of life lessons, responsibility, dedication, accountability,\u201d Sewell said. \u201cWorking with them every day is never a dull experience, and they give so much effort into what we do every single day.\u201d<\/p>\n
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Sewell said he has watched students grow more confident as they prepare for the national stage.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou start to see them realize that they have so much potential and so much talent,\u201d he said. \u201cWhen you start to see them use it, that\u2019s the reward.\u201d<\/p>\n
The trip comes after a year of fundraising, planning and strong community support. Bainbridge Mayor Sylvia Washington visited the high school to see the band off before they boarded buses.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe stand behind you, we support you, and we know that you\u2019re going to do wonderful,\u201d Washington said. \u201cThe sky is the limit.\u201d<\/p>\n
For many students, the trip is also a first visit to New York City.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ve never been there before, so I know it\u2019s going to be a great experience,\u201d said band member Kammie Marshburn, who added she packed plenty of warm clothes in preparation for colder weather.<\/p>\n
The St. Patrick\u2019s Day Parade in New York City kicks off at 11 a.m.<\/p>\n
The parade can be live-streamed on:<\/p>\n
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