Palatine High band steps in to decade old tradition

The neighborhoods around Palatine High School rang with the sounds of music as the PHS Marching Band concluded band camp with its annual parade and barbecue.

Assistant Band Director Marissa Rentner said that the parade serves two distinct purposes.

"One of the reasons we do it is so the students can get some practice on parade basics," she said. "We also do it as a way to create a community event. Any way we can get involved in the community is something we love to do."

The parade route moves throughout several residential streets in the vicinity of the high school and ultimately ends at the home of one of the band booster members. At the end point, the students break for a small barbecue.

Following the meal, the students take a different route back to the school before being released. The parade marks the end of the school's band camp, which prepares the students for the upcoming marching band season.

First year drum major and high school senior Zoe Vukelich said she enjoys seeing the families coming out to watch the band's parade.

"This made me really happy to see all of our families," she said. "It makes me happy to realize that these are the people I am going to be in band with my senior year. I love band"

This year's parade route saw the students march just over 2 miles with dozens of families and neighbors lining the streets.

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