MIAMI — When Joy Harden steps in front of the Keys Gate High School band, baton in hand, she is in her element. Music is more than instruction for Harden — it is expression, escape and passion.

That connection deepens when she plays the piccolo.

“Honestly, you’re not even here,” Harden said. “It’s just me.”

Harden believes music communicates what words cannot.

“There’s a quote by Hans Christian Andersen that says, ‘Where words fail, music speaks,’” she said. “We don’t need words. Words are weak.”

Her passion is evident in her students, and soon it will be seen on a national stage. On New Year’s Day, Harden will join 375 band directors from across North America in the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade, representing Homestead, Keys Gate and the state of Florida.

“It’s a privilege and an honor to represent Homestead, Keys Gate and the State of Florida to be among these fine individuals I’ll be marching alongside,” said Harden. “It’s humbling and I’m very excited about it, but also grateful for the opportunity.”

Despite the recognition, Harden says she is still a band kid at heart.

“Band directors are band kids who are a little older,” she said. “We never left the band room.”

Harden teaches her students that discipline and unity are essential to making great music.

“There’s diversity, but it comes together in one supporting sound with one goal,” she said.

On New Year’s Day, her students will watch their director practice exactly what she preaches — making music with purpose and passion.

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