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Published on January 20, 2025
Middletown High School Marching Band Set to Perform at Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C.Source: Google Street View

The Middletown High School marching band and cheerleaders have embarked on a journey to Washington, D.C., where they are set to perform at the presidential inauguration parade. Vice President-Elect JD Vance, a Middletown native, personally invited the high school group from his hometown to participate in the festivities. As reported by WHIO, the ensemble left yesterday morning, accompanied by law enforcement escorts from Butler County Sheriff’s Office and Middletown police.

However, due to extreme cold weather conditions, the inauguration ceremony was scheduled indoors, significantly affecting the lineup of performers. FOX19 reported that about 40 members from the original ensemble could not participate, bringing down the contingent to 148 students, staff, and chaperones. "I'm just looking forward to the experience because I've never been to D.C. and I've always wanted to go. So, I'm excited to not only see the sites, but the museums and of course have this experience to play in the arena. That’s a big, huge thing," Middletown student Raina Alexander told FOX19. The band is expected to perform two songs, with the remaining 30 minutes earmarked for the entire parade.

Despite the change in plans, the excitement among students and parents has not dimmed, with many considering the trip a significant opportunity. "I'm extremely excited," Stephanie Pringle, who sent off her daughter, expressed in a statement obtained by WLWT, "It's a once in a lifetime opportunity for generations to come. My kid is in the inaugural parade. I am a proud parent." The Middletown Musical Arts Club had disclosed that their band would be one of seven taking part in the parade, further enhancing the honor for the group.

With the weather shifting the venue indoors, the band will not get to march down Pennsylvania Ave., but they still play a pivotal role in adding to the ceremony's vibrance. MHS Principal Carmela Cotter expressed pride in her statement to WLWT, "We are honored and excited to be included in this historic moment and represent our district, city, county, and state in celebration of Middletown High School alumnus, Vice President-Elect J.D. Vance." The Middletown delegation will return home on Tuesday evening after the momentous event.