Owasso Band ‘Rose’ To The Top

By Julie Allison

On January 1, 2020, Owasso High School band students performed in the Rose Parade for the 6th time. With a completely new set of students, this accomplishment is not only impressive, but extraordinary; it was no small task.

Their secret, though, is in the amount of effort given each and every day. These students sacrificed time after school and ran countless miles in order to properly prepare for the endurance needed come performance day. 

“5.5 miles is a long way, especially when you are carrying an instrument and moving air,” said Chris Harris, the head band director.

Given that this is a difficult task in and of itself, it was surprising to hear that they also had to raise almost $2,000 to even go. Fortunately, despite these obstacles, many were able to attend and put on a fantastic show reflective of their talent for millions to watch. However, that wasn’t the only thing the band achieved while in Pasadena. These students were able to raise $4,279 for in-need residents within the local area— in only three and a half days, no less!

Seeing both the drive to better themselves as well as the community around them left Mr. Harris proud of the people they’ve become.

“I have a renewed faith in the future knowing these kids will be in charge one day.“ 

With the positive influence this experience has had on everyone, Chris Harris, along with the other band directors, plan on repeating this success with the next batch of kids in the near future.