Posted on: Friday, January 3, 2003

All-state Island band does Hawai'i proud

While Hawai'i marching bands have participated in the annual Rose Parade in the past, the appearance in this year's parade by some 400 young Island musicians was something else.

Parade watchers — and a nationwide television audience — saw the first public performance by the Hawai'i All State Na Koa Ali'i Marching Band. The huge ensemble was made up of players from schools, both public and private, from across the state.

The music was spectacular, as were the colorful costumes. Congratulations to band director Mike Payton, band manager John Riggle and most particularly to those 400 musicians.

And, once you catch your breath, how about doing it again next year?