• 09 27, 2022
• Bandmaster
• 0
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The band had a fantastic three day trip to Disneyland Paris, during which the band led the Disney Parade in front of thousands of people.

A trip to remember…..
On Thursday 27 October, at 6:30am (!) the band gathered in Claygate, boarding our coach to Paris.  The band then spent Friday and Saturday in the Disney Parks, enjoying the rides and soaking up the amazing atmosphere.  
The highlight of the trip was, of course, performing in the main Disney Parade.  Disneyland Paris was full to capacity and the parade route, which winds its way through the Disneyland park, was packed four or five people deep.  In preparing for the parade, the band had to go “back-stage”, into the area of the park where customers do not get to go.  Whilst waiting backstage for the parade to begin, Captain Hook came along (he seemed desperate to have a go at conducting the band!), as did Chip ‘n Dale who gave us a huge wave and a thumbs up for encouragement.  

Then the parade began.  Over the loud speakers, across the Disney Park, we heard … “Disney is proud to welcome the 1st Claygate Scout and Guide Band from the United Kingdom”.  

The main gates open and we see the huge crowds lining the route….and our march begins.  The crowd was brilliant, and the atmosphere was truly electric – cheers, clapping and shouts of encouragement.  As we approached Main Street, we played the theme tune from “Rocky” which sounded superb, with the buildings along main street providing great acoustics.  

The band’s performance on the day was first class.  We looked great as everyone’s uniform was in tip-top condition and the band’s marching was excellent…..and we sounded great too.  Everyone rose to the occasion and I hope every single member of the band will feel proud of their contribution to a brilliant performance.

Fun in the parks too……

Of course, as well as ensuring a superb performance through the parade, there was lots of fun and enjoyment to be had too.  Band members took full opportunity of all the rides and the Disney events across both of the Disneyland Paris parks.