Marching for W.T. Clarke High School at the Macy’s parade

Posted Thursday, December 12, 2019 1:09 pm

Matthew Michaelis, a senior at W.T. Clarke High School, represented the East Meadow School District in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on Nov. 28.

COURTESY EAST MEADOW SCHOOL DISTRICT

Michaelis, top left, marched alongside students from across the U.S. as part of the Macy’s Great American Marching Band.

COURTESY EAST MEADOW SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Macy’s Great American Marching Band included roughly 250 students from across the nation.

COURTESY EAST MEADOW SCHOOL DISTRICT

Matthew Michaelis, a senior and baritone player at W.T. Clarke High School in the East Meadow School District, marched in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade for the second year on Nov. 28.

Michaelis was one of roughly 250 high school students from across the United States chosen to participate in the Macy’s Great American Marching Band. The full band is comprised entirely of high school students and included a color guard as well as dancers. The students spent six days rehearsing and attending workshops at the Teaneck National Guard Armory in New Jersey prior to the parade.

Thanksgiving Day began at 2 a.m. in Herald Square for Michaelis and his fellow musicians. After rehearsing their performance, they fueled up at the Hard Rock Café. They were then positioned for their spot in the parade, where they were surrounded by notable acts. “We were actually right behind Idina Menzel and in front of the ‘Frozen’ float,” Michaelis said.

As his second year in attendance, Matthew was able to experience the event a bit differently than during his initial year. “Last year, this experience was new for me, so I was really concentrating,” he said. “But this year, I met a lot of people and it was humbling. The caliber of the group is just amazing and makes me want to do even better.”

During their free time, the students took part in some New York City adventures, including a trip to the famous Ellen’s Stardust Diner.

Even in the big city surrounded by millions of people, Matthew remembered what it meant for him to be there representing his hometown and school. “It was awesome to represent East Meadow and W.T. Clarke High School,” he said. “I did the best I could, and I think I did great.”

—Brian Stieglitz

Report an inappropriate comment

HELP SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM

The worldwide pandemic has threatened many of the businesses you rely on every day, but don’t let it take away your source for local news. Now more than ever, we need your help to ensure nothing but the best in hyperlocal community journalism comes straight to you. Consider supporting the Herald with a small donation. It can be a one-time, or a monthly contribution, to help ensure we’re here through this crisis. To donate or for more information, click here.

Marching for W.T. Clarke High School at the Macy’s parade

HELP SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM

NCAA Madness, Sweet 16 Teams Set!

How to spot nursing home abuse and fight it with Personal Injury Lawyer Phil Rizzuto

Breaking down the real meaning of these 4 contract terms with Attorney Anthony A. Nozzolillo, Esq.

Sanitary District 1 offers ‘enhanced’ pre-Passover pickups

South Side finding its groove

East Rockaway is rolling early

North Shore aims to regain form