Imagine a group of dedicated teenagers braving the cold and rain, not for a sports game, but to perfect their marching band routine. That's the reality for the Greendale High School marching band, who are gearing up for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: performing in the prestigious 2026 Rose Parade. But here's where it gets even more impressive: this isn't their first national television appearance. These Wisconsin students have already wowed audiences at the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade and the 2020 Rose Parade.
Freshman flutist Ethan Bowe embodies the band's spirit of seizing opportunities. When he saw auditions for a solo, he thought, “Why not?” That simple decision landed him a spotlight moment in the parade, alongside over 200 fellow students. And this is the part most people miss: nearly a quarter of Greendale High’s 900 students are part of this marching band powerhouse. They practice tirelessly, every weekday during class and Tuesday evenings, regardless of the weather.
“It’s been cold. It’s been wet,” Bowe admits, “But under all that, it’s fun, and it’s just cool being able to do it.”
Led by the legendary band director Tom Reifenburg, who’s steered the group to 20 consecutive state championships, the band is pulling out all the stops for the Rose Parade. Reifenburg explains, “You’re never offstage. It’s 5.5 miles, two hours or so that you have to be on the entire time.” Their setlist includes a creative twist: NSYNC’s “Bye, Bye, Bye,” complete with a nod to their home state—a snippet of “On, Wisconsin!” at the end.
But the road to Los Angeles isn’t just about practice; it’s also about fundraising. Tens of thousands of dollars are needed for the trip, and donations from Greendale and across Wisconsin have ensured every student can participate.
Here’s where it gets controversial: not everyone in the marching band plays an instrument. Some, like the color guard, spin and flip flags with precision, while others, like sophomore Clara Svoboda, lend their voices. Reifenburg discovered Svoboda’s talent during a high school musical and recruited her for the band’s show. “I just have to take a deep breath and go,” she says about her nerves.
This year’s show, “Snow Angel,” blends songs from Frozen with classical pieces and Beyoncé’s “Halo,” showcasing the band’s versatility.
The Rose Parade, airing from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Central time on January 1st, is more than just a performance—it’s a testament to hard work, community support, and the power of music.
But here’s the question we’re left with: In an age of digital entertainment, do marching bands still hold the same cultural significance? Or are they a relic of a bygone era? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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