Across the United States, senior marching musicians are learning of their selection to the 2013 U.S. Army All-American Marching Band through media events that include interviews and recognition by school officials and peers.
One of the earliest events was a media tour event in September for Jarrell Verbecken from Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania.
His selection was announced at Mechanicsburg Area Senior High School. Each new USAAAMB member selected for the 125-member band receives a similar announcement event at his or her school.
Verbecken told a reporter from The Sentinel in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, “I am grateful, and it is an honor to have been chosen,” adding, “I was in shock and awe when I found out. I have put so much work in, and tried so hard to get there.”
NAfME is the official selection partner of the USAAAMB and partners with title sponsor, the U.S. Army, along with Drum Corps International and All-American Games. Seniors are chosen for the band for exceptional musicianship, marching achievement, character, and leadership.
Photos of beaming students and other updates are posted on the USAAAMB Facebook Page.
The Facebook page includes comments from new and former band members, band directors, and parents welcoming new members to the ranks of the USAAAMB. One mother wrote: “It was amazing; you all won’t believe how it will affect your life forever! My son still misses the experience every day!”
Roz Fehr, NAfME managing editor for news, October 11, 2012. © National Association for Music Education (NAfME.org)
