On Friday, September 22nd, the Mayfair Monsoons Marching Corps celebrated their admission to the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Rose Parade for 2025. The 605 All-Star Marching Band is making its way to screens across the globe, leading a perfect representation of Mayfair High School, as well as eight other high schools along the 605 freeway: Mayfair High School, Bellflower High School, Gahr High School, Artesia High School, Norwalk High School, La Mirada High School, John Glenn High School, and Cerritos High School.
The project was launched by our band director, Mr. Tom Philips, with the dream of making it big in the parade before his retirement in 2025. However, after the initial hit of the COVID-19 Pandemic, the numbers of enrolment in Marching Bands across the state have dwindled. Knowing that the Mayfair Monsoons Marching Corps couldn't make it to the parade alone, Tom decided to partner with other schools, totaling over 400 performers (band and color guard).
As a student and captain in the program, I am eternally grateful to be a part of this experience. Along with many others, soon-to-be alumni, we wonder if we will still be able to march in the parade. All of these things will continue to be determined with time. In the meantime, congratulations to all BUSD high schools for this grand achievement!
Image courtesy of Pexels.
Photo by Alican Helik: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-holding-white-and-red-flowers-in-the-air-18990831/