The Highty-Tighties continued their tradition of welcoming new presidents on Sunday, performing in the "We Are One" inauguration celebration on short notice.
Director George McNeill said that although the band did not receive an invitation to perform in its 12th inaugural parade, he accepted a late invitation to play in the celebration on Sunday that featured Tiger Woods.
"I received the invitation last Tuesday," McNeill said. "It was quite a late invite. We had a lot to do to prepare for our departure on Sunday."
McNeill said the band was called back to Blacksburg, where they rehearsed on Saturday and then left for Washington, D.C., on Sunday morning.
Although it was not the parade the band is used to, McNeill said the "We Are One" audience was an enjoyable one.
"The crowd was very energetic and very responsive. We played a mix of marching and pep band music for about 20 minutes. It was amazing. There were 300,000 people out there," McNeill said.
Performing in front of the Washington Monument, the Highty-Tighties' routine began at 11:40 a.m.
McNeill was eager to accept the invitation, just to perform on this historic occasion.
"I was very disappointed that we didn't receive an invitation, but at least we can say we were there in some way," McNeill said.
He said Virginia Military Institute, one band that was invited to perform, deserved it, and he congratulated them.
McNeill also added he was grateful for the band's cooperation and performance.
"I'm proud of my band," McNeill said. "They did a fantastic job on short notice. I thank them for coming back early to participate in this historic event."
Leave a comment 0 Comments Write a letter to the editor
All letters to the editor must include a name, e-mail, daytime phone number and affiliation to Virginia Tech. Affiliation includes: year and major for students; position and department for faculty and staff; current city for alumni and parents.