The Bremen High School Marching Band, based in Midlothian, Illinois, is making history this year as one of just 19 high school, collegiate, and community bands selected to perform in the 2024 Chicago Thanksgiving Parade! This marks the first time in school history that any group from Bremen has been part of the iconic parade, and the excitement is through the roof.
“This is such an incredible opportunity for our students,” said Ben Salgado, Bremen’s band director. “They’ve been working so hard for this moment, and I couldn’t be prouder. They deserve to be seen and heard not just by our community, but by the Chicagoland area and beyond.” The 65-member band includes musicians and a vibrant color guard led by first-year instructor Stephanie Peterson, who has been doing an outstanding job shaping the group.
The band’s road to the parade began last spring, with Mr. Salgado submitting a performance video showcasing last year’s group. “You can’t just have one great year,” Salgado explained. “It’s about maintaining a standard of excellence over time, and I feel confident in saying that this group has reached that level. Our kids are incredible, and they keep getting better.”
Preparation for the parade has been no small feat. The band has been rehearsing since the summer, starting with three weeks of practices in June and continuing throughout the fall season, which also saw them competing in field show contests. This year, they earned a 3rd place finish and Best Percussion in their class at the Normal Marching Contest, along with a 2nd place award in their class at the Lincoln-Way Marching Invitational, a Music for All Affiliate Marching Band Event. Following their competitive season, they scaled back rehearsals to focus specifically on their parade performance, holding Monday night practices to perfect their routine.
Beyond their achievements on the field, the Bremen High School music program offers a variety of ensembles, including Symphonic Band, Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Combo, Concert Choir, Broadway at Bremen, and Mariachi Band. These groups consistently earn top ratings at festivals, reflecting the program’s dedication to musical excellence.
This holiday season, the Bremen Marching Band will also perform in the Midlothian Santa Parade on December 7, the Posen Christmas Parade on December 14, and the school’s Winter Concert on December 11.
Be sure to catch the Bremen Marching Band in the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade on November 28, either downtown or on Pluto TV from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Don’t miss their big debut—they’ve earned it!