Blind Marching Band

Even though my friend George was in charge of the ENTIRE Tournament of Roses Parade, I had to find out about one of Pasadena’s invited marching bands from a news station in New Zealand!

The Ohio State School for the Blind has the honor of being the first blind marching band in the United States.

Yes, you read that right. A blind marching band. The director’s motto is “If it can’t be done, let’s do it anyway.” What a remarkable man to throw down a gauntlet like this to his kids and what extraordinary students to not only accept the challenge, but to do it up right.

In case you were wondering … yes, I got verklempt as I watched. I’m looking for footage of their Rose Parade appearance, but can’t find it. Anyone?

I’m awed and inspired. Take a look at the video and tell me what you think.

9 thoughts on “Blind Marching Band”

  1. My daughter & husband just moved to Pasadena–they actually live on the parade route! They worked on one of only 4 floats built by all volunteers. I’ll ask her about the band. NEXT year, we will be there!

    1. Claudia … I went to the parade many years ago. Truly an American experience worth having … especially if you know someone who lives on the parade route who owns a bathroom and a coffeemaker!

  2. Hi, I’m one of the moms of the band members. The OSSB Marching Panthers will be at the Tournament of Roses Parade in 2010. We hope that you’ll be able to see us on TV next January. I’ve included a website that shows more info about the band, just in case you are interested

    https://www.ossb.oh.gov/MusicNews.html

    1. Paula … Thanks so much for the clarification. We’ll be watching for them NEXT year at the Rose Parade. How exciting! Please offer my congrats to the kids!

  3. The Ohio School for the Blind Band will march on January 1, 2010. My son, who has cerebral palsy will be marching with his high school band on that day also playing his tuba. Watch for the Conroe Tiger Band, Conroe High School, Conroe, Texas. My son, Thomas, looks forward to meeting a fellow tuba player from Ohio who has overcome obstacles as well.

    1. Lisa … That is too cool! I’ll watch for the Conroe Tiger Band and woo-hoo for your tuba player since mine won’t be there. Best wishes to you and to Thomas … hope you both have a hoot!

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