‘There’s a lot of momentum’: Lincoln Trojan Band is officially practicing for performance in the Big Apple

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) - The Lincoln High School Band is taking its talents to the Big Apple!

More than 100 student band members are preparing to perform in New York City's Saint Patrick's Day Parade, in front of roughly 2 million spectators and thousands of viewers.

"I feel like we're heading into a new era, I ain't going to hold you," said Band Captain Bereket Mulugeta. "Going to New York is such a big thing like marching the show there is such a big thing and it just tells us how much we've come since sophomore year, like how much we've grown as a band."

Students at Lincoln High School are looking forward to taking their talents to a national stage!

The Lincoln Trojan Band is headed to New York City to perform in the Saint Patrick's Day Parade in March 2025 but practice and fundraising for the trip starts now.

"There's a lot of momentum. Nearly 60% of our band are freshmen and sophomores so we are busy preparing these younger kids along with our older kids to march in this parade," said Band Director Hannah Haugen.

The historic event dates back to 1762 and organizers call it the world's 'oldest and largest' parade.

The Trojans are looking forward to taking the 'Pride of the Big Bend' to the big show.

"Just knowing that we're capable and have the ability and opportunity to take such a big trip says a lot about what we're capable of and it's honestly an honor to be a part of a program that can do such a thing," said Drum Major Sophia Clement.

It's estimated that more than 150,000 people march in the parade each year and one Lincoln senior has no doubt that this band will shine and stand out.

"I mean I love this band, it's the best band in the land that's our quote and this will always be one of the best things that ever happened to me. I've never felt so good about a group, ever," Mulugeta said.

The band right now is raising money to help with travel expenses, their goal is $20,000. Those interested in helping them reach their goal can.

They are also doing what's called a Rehearse-a-thon this Saturday at Gene Cox at 5:30 p.m. and people are welcome to attend.