The 260 members of the American Fork High School Band won't be waking up to the smell of turkey this Thanksgiving. Instead, they'll be marching down Broadway in New York City as one of seven high school bands from around the country performing in this year's 81st annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

This is the first time a band from Utah has received an invitation to march in the parade, and they said they couldn't be more excited.

"We are just thrilled about the opportunity," band director Jeremy Arnold said. "There are hundreds of bands that applied from across the United States and to be one of [the seven chosen] is a high honor."

The band has been undefeated state champions for the past 14 years in competition.

"This [prestigious nomination] is another crowning achievement that shows the band's hard work and character," said Martin Lewis, the band publicist and coordinator.

Alex Anderson, a 15-year-old bass clarinet player, said he is excited to see a different side of the world.

"I come from [a place of] mountain valleys, and to see a city will be cool," he said. "I've never been to New York before."

For Mellaina Adams, 14-year-old flute player, this experience will also be a first.

"It will be fun to go somewhere new and do something I've never done before," she said.

Lewis said the trip will cost $1,500 per child, and they have been successful with their fundraising efforts from individual and corporate donations.

"The Bank of American Fork has been the largest single contributor and has vowed to match a $20,000 donation," Lewis said.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the kids," said Dan Adams, who has volunteered for more than 20 years in the band's booster group. "It's wonderful to see this many people having this kind of experience.

At the band's final practice last Tuesday, Arnold was urging the band to nail their routine, reminding them their next performance would be on a world stage at Herald Square in New York.

"It's not going to look good on national television if you're lines aren't straight!" he bellowed, observing the band practice from a high platform.

The honor of being nominated comes after a competition two years ago, where Macy's representatives were in attendance and impressed with what they saw. Arnold said the band directors sent them a DVD of their performance and individual recommendations were made.

Arnold said the experience of marching in the parade will be unforgettable.

"It's really neat because there are a lot of these students that have probably never been outside of Utah County," said Jeremy Arnold. "To go all the way to New York City ... marching on Broadway on national television will be a great opportunity."

Melissa Karrull, 14-year-old flute player, said she hopes the performance will run smoothly.

"I hope we do really well and that our lines are really straight," she said. "I just hope I'm going to be warm enough!"

Copyright Brigham Young University 19 Nov 2007