Avon Marching Black and Gold to Represent the Town of Avon on an International Stage

The Avon Marching Black & Gold secured a special invitation to perform in the 2012 Rose Parade along with its 3rd consecutive Grand National Championship in the Bands of America Grand National competition.  They will participate alongside a select group of 22 other bands on January 2, 2012.

The Tournament of Roses parade, held annually in Pasadena, California, has a 116 year history and a worldwide audience.  This annual spectacle is viewed by over 50 million Americans annually and millions more worldwide.  “Receiving an invitation to participate in the Tournament of Roses Parade is a once in a lifetime experience for the students and staff alike.  It’s an opportunity to represent our community on a grand scale,” says Jay Webb, Avon’s Band Director, “but it’s also a daunting task.  In order to realize this dream, we’ll need to raise an additional $250,000 above and beyond our usual budget. We won’t be able to do this without support from the community.”  We want all of the students to have an opportunity to participate regardless of their family’s financial situation.

The Avon Marching Black & Gold will be mobilizing a force of parents and other supporters to begin fundraising with the goal that every student that wants to participate can do so.  “There will be multiple events in the community to garner support, but donations are being accepted already,” notes Barbara Suizdak, president of the Avon Band Boosters.  She adds that, “the Avon Marching Black & Gold is a 501(c)3 organization, so all donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.”