In light of the events of this year, Monroe High’s Marching band has had to adjust to the current circumstances and pre-record its portion of the Detroit Thanksgiving Day Parade. This parade is very important to many people, so many members expressed that they are incredibly honored to be able to be able to spread our joy and love during the holidays. The graduating class in particular seemed especially happy to be able to perform one more time, even with the restrictions at hand. 

“It was fun, definitely not anything like last year, but still an amazing opportunity,” senior Erica Wood, trumpet section leader, said.

The prepping that went into the parade included many hours of marching around the track at the MHS football field, all the while being socially distanced and safe. 

The student leadership in the band kept everyone’s spirits high and ready to take on any obstacles being thrown their way. The band director, drum majors, and section leaders have made the band who they are, and although they were not able to make as many memories as they had in previous years, the memories are some that they will never forget.

“Recording was a reminder of some normalcy we have missed so dearly this year,” said senior Marina Cerrone, drum major. “I’m so happy that we had this opportunity to return some of the fun that we typically have in marching band, especially as a senior.”

Band director Joseph Swinkey said he hopes that the band participating in the parade will show students that you can do anything you strive to do as long as they put in work and abide by the rules and regulations. 

“Participating in the Detroit Thanksgiving Day Parade this year looked different, but it was just as rewarding, if not more rewarding, than last year,” Swinkey said. “Having the opportunity to see the Trojan Marching Band work hard to prepare for a performance was special. With so many of our normal activities out of reach due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this socially distant, crowd-free filming session was the highlight of the season for me.”

Swinkey said that there are many aspects of traditional years that he misses.

“I have never missed the long hours of rehearsal and bus trips so much as I have this year,” he said.

He added that he was so proud of how “professional, passionate, and polished” the band was this year. 

“I continue to be impressed with our student’s commitment to not only being musically and visually prepared for this, but also to staying safe and following strict safety protocols,” Swinkey said. “I have said this time and time again that the students in our band are handling this crisis with a better attitude and discipline than many of the adults I know- I wouldn’t be saying it if it wasn’t true.” 

He attributes the quality of the band to the many hours of rehearsal. 

“Rehearsals were exciting, positive, and our upperclassmen did a fantastic job of teaching our new members and making everyone feel welcome,” he said. “All those repetitions around the track and parking lot paid off, and I can’t wait to see the finished product on TV.”