Photo Credit: Cy-Fair ISDEducation
Two CFISD students to march with Macy’s Great American Marching Band
Cy-Fair High School senior Hannah Bockhahn and Cypress Woods High School junior Lance Jehlik will both be marching with the Macy’s Great American Marching Band in the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.
Both Bockhahn and Jehlik were selected for the Great American Marching Band after submitting audition videos and written submissions online. Bockhahn will march as one of 40 color guard members selected from across the country, while Jehlik will play the trombone as one of approximately 185 student musicians.
“I waited for months after submitting my audition,” Jehlik said. “I received the news in an email in March. I was so excited and happy! After months of waiting, it was one of the best things ever.”
Added Bockhahn: “Once my videos were submitted, it took several months for them to get back to me. When I got the acceptance email, I immediately shared the news with my mom. I was so excited to hear that they wanted me to be a part of such an amazing band.”
The Macy’s Great American Marching Band began in 2006 and has been a staple in each Thanksgiving parade since. Bockhahn and Jehlik will spend the week leading up to the parade in New York City rehearsing, while also receiving the opportunity to sightsee.
The 2025 Great American Marching Band is under the direction of Dr. Richard Good from Auburn University and a handful of other directors serving in various roles to help ensure all student participants are prepared for the Thanksgiving parade.
“It means so much to me to have this experience since I have always wanted to continue color guard after high school,” Bockhahn said. “I would also like to thank all the color guard staff and clinicians I’ve had the past four years, but specifically my head coach, Kesley Hernandez. Without her, I wouldn’t have my current skill level or have been able to experience something this amazing.”
Added Jehlik: “Receiving this honor of playing in the parade means so much to me, and I hope that me going to something like this inspires other underclassmen not only at Cy Woods, but around the district. Being selected makes me feel grateful to all the directors and clinicians, especially T.J. Peterman, who have taught me over the past six years. I want other student musicians to know all the hard work and hours of practice and private lessons really do pay off and create these types of opportunities.”
The 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will air on NBC starting at 8:30 a.m. and can be streamed on Peacock.
Source: CFISD
