CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Michelle Turon, the esteemed band director at Chillicothe High School, is set to fulfill a lifelong dream as she marches alongside 400 band directors from across the nation in the historic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® on November 23, 2023. Turon’s participation is part of the Saluting America’s Band Directors project, following its successful debut in the 2022 Rose Parade®.
The overarching theme for this year’s parade entry, “America’s band directors: We teach music. We teach life.,” aims to honor the exceptional dedication and achievements of band directors and music educators. These professionals, who collectively represent the Saluting America’s Band Directors project, have played instrumental roles in mentoring and teaching hundreds of thousands of students throughout their careers.
Reflecting on her selection, Turon expressed her excitement, stating, “Marching in the parade has always been a dream. I remember watching the parade growing up and loving all of the performances. I’m excited to cross this off my bucket list!” Notably, Turon’s husband, Nicholas Turon, former band director at Paint Valley Local Schools and current OMEA Technology Director, will join her in the parade. Michelle Turon shared, “We look forward to marching together since it’s something we’ve never done before.”
The band, consisting of nationally renowned music educators, will be directed by Jon Waters, a prominent figure in the field. The Saluting America’s Band Directors project is sponsored by the Michael D. Sewell Memorial Foundation, headquartered in Pickerington, Ohio. Established to honor the legacy of the late Mike Sewell, who devoted nearly 40 years to school and community music programs in Pickerington and Central Ohio, the foundation remains committed to continuing his impactful work.
As the nation anticipates the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, viewers can catch the spectacle on Thursday starting at 8:30 am. The parade will be broadcast on NBC and Peacock, offering audiences a front-row seat to the celebration of America’s band directors and their profound impact on both music and life education.