NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — With President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration being moved indoors due to frigid temperatures forecasted, the Stewarts Creek High School (SCHS) band will no longer perform in the 60th Presidential Inaugural Parade in Washington, D.C.
SCHS principal Dr. Clark Harrell shared an update that the Presidential Inaugural Committee notified him Friday night that due to weather and the movement of events, the invited high school bands will not be able to participate.
“This is very disappointing news, as we know that our students and staff have spent countless hours working and preparing for the parade,” Harrell said.
On Thursday, Tractor Supply Company surprised 160 SCHS band students by donating the final $40,000 needed to reach their $120,000 fundraising goal ahead of their trip.
“We are very thankful for the overwhelming support we have received from our community,” Harrell said. “The financial contributions from individuals and businesses from all across the Volunteer State have been truly humbling.”
Harrell said in the spirit of resilience and because a vast majority of the travel expenses are non-refundable, the band will still travel to Washington, D.C.
The band was set to perform a patriotic medley of two songs, including “My Country ‘Tis of Thee” and “You’re a Grand Old Flag.”
“We are working with members of the Tennessee Congressional Delegation on details for a public performance in honor of the 60th Presidential Inauguration,” Harrell said. “While we are not able to perform in the parade, we are still proud to represent the great State of Tennessee in Washington and in our performance honoring this historic occasion.”
