In order to be considered for a position in the 2018 January U.S. Army All-American Marching Band, thousands of students nationwide submitted materials that included videos of both their solo performances and marching performances.  Two Long Island students were selected to join. Candidates Jared Sullivan from Wantagh High School and Michael Cuellar from Brentwood High School were granted an all-expenses paid trip to participate.

In the past, Brentwood has had a total of four students selected to engage in the All-American Marching Band. Michael spoke in regards to his selection, stating that he “was really speechless” and that “this opportunity is one that I’m very grateful for.”

The U.S. Army All-American Marching Band is a prestigious association for music, which includes percussion and wind instruments. The U.S. Army All-American Marching Band features more than 100 standout high school players in the East vs. West match up.  Not only do the participants get to perform at halftime during the All-American Bowl (the biggest high school football game in the nation), but the members will also take Master Classes in their musical disciplines.

Michael explained the kind of passion that it took for him to practice and succeed in getting accepted to the All-American Marching Band. He stated, “To some music is just a hobby, something to help them pass the time; but to me, music is a really great way of expressing myself.”