South Pasadena High School Marching Band’s competition season will kick off on a high note this fall with a community-wide ceremony to dedicate its new 53’ band trailer. The big reveal will take place in the high school’s Fremont Avenue parking lot at 5:00 pm on Tuesday October 3, 2023.

 

Thanks to the very generous support of South Pasadena Unified School District (SPUSD), the semi-trailer will transport all of the band and colorguard equipment, uniforms, and props to band competitions and performances both locally and statewide starting this fall.

After decades of renting trucks and hours spent finding parents to drive the vehicles, the new band trailer will allow for safer and more efficient loading and unloading using two, 16-foot steel ramps and a state-of-the-art hoist to lift heavier items onto the handbuilt, second level. The trailer will also provide for better organization and maintenance of the instruments, including compartments and space dedicated for specific purposes. Additionally, it will provide students with a renewed sense of pride and ownership as they make the trailer their new ‘home on the road.’

Starting Saturday October 7, the band will be traveling to Hacienda Heights for their first competition, followed by Chino Hills, Chino, and Trabuco Hills, before heading up to Elk Grove and Sacramento for the Western Band Association’s Championships in November.

Last year’s Music Booster co-president and band dad, Steve Zikman, spent hundreds of hours leading the effort to acquire, design, and build the trailer.

“Our heartfelt gratitude to SPUSD for fully supporting our music program and trusting us with this very generous gift,” said Zikman. “It is a huge responsibility and one which the Music Boosters and the students take very seriously. This investment will take us to a whole new level and will be a lasting legacy for future generations of band and colorguard students. A special thank you to Superintendent Geoff Yantz, SPHS Principal John Eldred, Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Dave Lubs, Director of Facilities and Maintenance Alfredo Perez, and everyone else at SPUSD who has been part of this year-long journey. They have been absolutely wonderful in helping us achieve this long-term dream.” 

The event will feature special presentations and band performances. All community members are invited to attend the dedication ceremony at 5:00 p.m. on October 3.