A few weeks ago, we finally decided to convert some VHS tapes to DVD. The 1996 Rose Bowl video from my marching band days at Northwestern University became my first selection. Though the production looked terrible compared to today’s high-definition television, it sure did bring back a lot of great memories.
Very little can compare to the Tournament of Roses experience, which typically includes Disneyland, Universal Studios, down time at the beach, pep rallies amid movie stars and America’s New Year’s Celebration—the Rose Parade itself.
Then, of course, there’s the game—The Granddaddy of Them All. With all of these highlights, it’s amazing that the trip could even be edited down to a 1-hour tape.
This January/February 2012 issue presents our 5th annual coverage of the Tournament of Roses, including photos from the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game. Though a lot of bands were making return trips to Pasadena (being officially allowed to re-apply for an invitation every four years), some bands were new to the scene. The Siloam Springs (Ark.) High School band was one of those that made its Rose Parade debut, fulfilling a dream that took many years to achieve.
On a sadder note, the band world witnessed a terrible tragedy on Nov. 19 with the death of Robert D. Champion, Jr., 26, a drum major at Florida A&M University. Champion died as a result of blunt force trauma from an alleged hazing incident. Our deepest sympathies go out to Champion’s family and friends.
We want to do our part to stop hazing incidents like these from happening again. Read “How to Stop Hazing” to find out what you can do to identify, report and prevent hazing. Whether you are a student, parent or band director, you can make a difference.
We hope 2012 brings you brighter days and wonderful musical moments.
Musically Yours,
Christine Ngeo Katzman
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
Photo by Ken Martinson/Marching.com
