The Saluting America’s Band Directors project has assembled band directors from across North America to march January 1 under the theme, “America’s band directors: We teach music. We teach life.”
Benedetta Cargile, the band director of the Morenci High School Pride Band, has been selected to join a marching band of about 500 band directors from across North America in the Pasadena Rose Parade® on January 1, 2026. The band will accompany a colorful, animated float along the 5.5-mile parade route.
The Saluting America’s Band Directors parade entry will convey the theme, “America’s band directors: We teach music. We teach life.” to recognize the extraordinary dedication and accomplishments of band directors and music educators everywhere. Throughout their careers, the music educators in this band have collectively mentored and taught hundreds of thousands of students. These professionals not only teach and conduct music, they teach about life itself.
According to Cargile, “I am truly honored and excited to participate in this event alongside fellow band directors from across the country. This year’s theme resonates deeply with me, as both marching and concert bands provide students with far more than musical training. These ensembles offer a unique space for young people to grow—cultivating discipline, teamwork, creativity, and the life skills that will empower them to succeed long after high school.”
The band will be directed by nationally known music educator and innovative band director Jon Waters, who will also lead rehearsals and other performances of the band when in Pasadena.
The sponsoring organization behind the Saluting America’s Band Directors project is the Michael D. Sewell Memorial Foundation, based in Pickerington, Ohio. The foundation was created to recognize and carry on the work of the late Mike Sewell, who dedicated his life to the school and community music programs in Pickerington and the Central Ohio area for almost 40 years.