BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. — Excitement, gratitude and shock washed over West Broward High School band students Tuesday as they received a surprise of a lifetime: an invitation to perform in London’s 2027 New Year’s Parade.
“I freaked out. I thought it was the coolest thing. I thought it was just something with some board members to see how the school’s going,” said Alex Moreno, a junior in the band.
The music that brought them to London earned high praise from their band director, Josh Bishop.
“I’ve been doing this a long time. I can’t take all of the credit,” he said.
Former Westminster Mayor Duncan Sands, great-grandson of Winston Churchill, personally presented the honor, letting the students know just how talented they are.
“This school in particular, it’s just the quality of musicians. I’ve seen videos of (their) work — they’re amazing,” Sands said.
Roughly 120 students from West Broward High School will take part in the parade in 2027, and even seniors who won’t be able to attend said they are proud of their classmates.
“I went crazy. I’m so mad, I’m so proud and so excited. I really wish I could go. I may or may not be planning a trip. I’m definitely gonna go see them,” said student Alyssa. “These guys are my best friends. Band is life, but it’s fun. This is going to be so awesome and it’s so worth it to tough it out.”
Only about 20 schools are invited to perform in the London New Year’s Day Parade each year.
The last time a local high school band made it to London was in 2024, when Key West High School represented Florida.
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