Port Chester’s music program is off to an extraordinary start this winter season, with students and alumni shining in high-profile performance opportunities both locally and nationally. From a major regional parade to a nationally televised holiday tradition to unforgettable onstage collaborations, our musicians continue to demonstrate excellence, creativity and Ram pride at every turn.
Pride of Port Chester Returns to the Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular
The Pride of Port Chester Marching Band made a vibrant return to the Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular, one of the largest helium balloon parades in the United States and a cherished regional tradition that draws more than 100,000 spectators each year. Featuring giant character balloons, award-winning marching bands, professional performance groups and community ensembles from across the tri-state area, the event offers students a unique opportunity to perform alongside a diverse range of talented groups in a festive, high-energy setting.
While parade announcers welcomed Port Chester as a first-time participant, the district’s history in this event reaches back many years. After an extended hiatus, this year’s appearance marked a meaningful comeback and allowed today’s students to experience the excitement of this celebrated showcase.
Performing before such a large audience, the biggest many students have ever seen, proved both inspiring and exhilarating. The band delivered with confidence, precision and unmistakable Port Chester pride. Their return to Stamford highlights the growing visibility of the program and reinforces the strength, spirit and excellence that define Port Chester’s music community.
Alumni Shine in the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Port Chester pride reached national heights this Thanksgiving as two recent graduates, Christopher Soria (Class of 2022) and Camilo Mamani (Class of 2025), marched in the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade as members of the renowned Spartans Drum and Bugle Corps. Viewed by millions nationwide, the parade stands as one of the most prestigious performance opportunities available to young musicians.
The Spartans, an elite and award-winning ensemble, select their performers through a highly competitive audition process that requires exceptional musical skill, discipline and dedication. Both Christopher and Camilo are active members of the group, and their participation in the parade reflects years of commitment to their craft.
Their invitation to perform also came through a meaningful Port Chester connection. Band Director Isaac Schneider, who serves as the Tour Manager for the Spartans Drum and Bugle Corps, helped open the door to this extraordinary opportunity. Schneider noted that alumni achievements such as these highlight the strength and lasting impact of Port Chester’s music programs, as well as the district’s growing efforts to engage and celebrate its graduates.
“These opportunities are usually once in a lifetime, so seeing recent Port Chester students on this iconic national stage was inspiring!” Schneider said.
Christopher and Camilo’s accomplishments offer powerful inspiration to today’s young musicians, showing just how far passion, hard work and a strong musical foundation can carry them.
The Port Chester Sound Takes the Stage With Foreigner
The Port Chester Sound, our high school’s choral ensemble, received an exciting invitation to perform onstage with the world-renowned rock band Foreigner during their concerts at The Capitol Theatre this week. Students stepped into the spotlight at one of Port Chester’s most iconic venues, joining the band for a powerful rendition of the classic hit “I Want to Know What Love Is” before a sold out audience.
The opportunity came directly from Foreigner’s Marketing Director, who reached out to the district as part of the band’s longstanding commitment to supporting music education. For more than 18 years, Foreigner has partnered with over 800 school choirs across North America, and this year, that tradition proudly continued with our very own performers under the direction of Choral Director Jonathan Pereira.
For students, the experience offered a rare look into professional music making, from backstage coordination to onstage performance, while celebrating the artistry, teamwork, and dedication that define our choral program. Their enthusiasm, professionalism, and heart were evident in every note, making the moment truly unforgettable.