Fort Myers High School band to perform in New Year’s Day London Parade
Eighty-four students and 30 adults from Fort Myers High School arrived in London on Wednesday, as they are performing in the 2023 London New Year’s Day Parade.
The community can watch the parade Sunday, Jan. 1, at noon London time, 7 a.m. Eastern Standard Time at https://www.youtube.com/@londonparade, or https:/lnydp.com/parade-location-timing/.
“They all got there today and are very tired,” Fort Myers High School Principal Robert Butz said, adding that they landed safely.
The Greenwave Marching Band received an invitation on Nov. 15, 2021 during a ceremony. It was $3,500 per student to travel, which the students raised over the last couple of years.
“They did it with gladness… excited to be able to do it and raise money,” he said of mostly sophomore, junior and senior students.
Butz said he is not really sure how the band is selected to perform, as the London Parade and committee invite people from around the country. He said they gave the band an opportunity 20-odd years ago to perform in the parade.
The band, as with every other performance, prepares in the same way, although the London Parade ratchets things up a bit.
“There is a little more stress and pressure, but it is more on the adults than on the kids. The kids are resilient. They do what they are told and work hard at it,” he said. “We have a phenomenal band director. He has done a great job with the kids. He works on music and the whole student.”
While the band is in London they will also be doing some sightseeing, as they do not return until Jan. 3.
“They are going there to enjoy themselves as well. They will tour London and see the whole country. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the kids,” Butz said.
The thought of his students performing in London constantly brings a smile to his face, especially when someone mentions it in passing.
“It’s awesome. You want the kids to act right. You want to make sure we represent Fort Myers High School with class and dignity. What our kids are going to experience and what they are going to do… it’s televised worldwide and millions of people are able to see it,” he said, adding that he is as proud as a peacock.
Butz said it is not just about representing Fort Myers High School, but the School District of Lee County as well, as they are a product of the district.
He said he wanted to thank Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier for approving the travel and letting them perform in London.
To reach MEGHAN BRADBURY, please email news@breezenewspapers.com