The Diamond Marching Band braved the cold streets of New York City on Thanksgiving Day as part of a once-in-a-lifetime performance in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
What started at Geasey Field led all the way to Manhattan, where the band marked its 100th anniversary with one of its biggest stages yet.
For cymbalist Abby Rose, marching in Macy’s was the moment she’s always hoped for.
“This band is truly just a dream come true,” she said.
The four-day trip was packed from start to finish, with performances across New York City, including an appearance on The Today Show. Even an early morning call time couldn’t stop members from bringing a bit of Philly spirit with them.
“We were there at like five in the morning, and we got to do a bunch of different Temple songs,” Erin Flanagan said. “We even did ‘Fly, Eagles Fly.’ That was awesome.”
For senior music education major and saxophonist Erin Flanagan, the parade fulfilled a childhood wish.
“I’ve wanted to be in the Macy’s parade since I was like six years old, so it was really surreal for me,” she said.
While the whirlwind week was exhausting, Laurans Trinh says it was more than worth it.
“The challenge paid off, and I had a great experience. I think I’ll be telling my kids about this in the future,” one musician said.
And although marching in Macy’s is hard to top, the band is looking ahead, especially under director Dr. Brunner.
“It doesn’t get much bigger than Macy’s, but if anyone can find a way, it would be Dr. Brunner,” said Flanagan.
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