West Genesee band director to march in Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

FILE – Revelers makes their way down the Avenue of the Americas in front of Radio City Music Hall during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York on Nov. 28, 2019. This year’s parade will snap back to form after bowing to pandemic restrictions last year. It will feature 15 giant character balloons, 28 floats, 36 novelty and heritage inflatables, more than 800 clowns, 10 marching bands and nine performance groups and, of course, Santa Claus (AP Photo/Eduardo Munoz Alvarez, File)

by: Clare Normoyle

Posted: Nov 3, 2023 / 03:33 PM EDT

Updated: Nov 3, 2023 / 03:33 PM EDT

CAMILLUS, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a holiday spectacle that millions look forward to every year, now has another Central New York connection.

Erin McConnell, a band director at West Genesee, was selected to join a marching band of 400 band directors nationwide, to march on Thanksgiving Day.

“The Saluting America’s Band Directors parade entry will again convey its 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,” said West Genesee.

McConnell, as well as other band directors, have taught and inspired hundreds of students throughout the years.

“We are very proud of her for this great accomplishment and opportunity,” said West Genesee.

The band will be directed by nationally known music educator and innovative band director Jon Waters.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade begins at 8:30 a.m. on Nov. 23, and takes place along the streets of New York City.