By: Mark Vest | West Bloomfield Beacon | Published November 30, 2023
WEST BLOOMFIELD — West Bloomfield Resident Ross Miller, a junior at Bloomfield Hills High School, was part of an “all-star” band at the 97th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City on Thanksgiving morning.
Miller plays the trumpet in his high school marching band, jazz band and symphony band.
He was selected after submitting an application and auditioning to be one of the 185 musicians nationwide accepted into the Macy’s Great American Marching Band, according to an email.
The band is under the direction of Richard Good and Doug Rosener, of Auburn University.
“Along with approximately 40 flags and dancers, the marching band joins the parade as they march along Central Park and down 6th Avenue in NYC, concluding with a performance in Herald Square, directly in front of Macy’s,” the email states.
Miller understands that the opportunity he earned is not one that comes along every day.
“Being able to perform for all of America was a unique experience,” Miller stated via email. “I hope more people are able to participate in this amazing experience.”
Miller’s mom, Debbie Binder, who is the West Bloomfield Township clerk, shared some thoughts about her son’s accomplishment.
“It was a magnificent experience to see Ross march down 6th Avenue representing the State of Michigan,” Binder stated via email. “His hard work and dedication definitely paid off and Ross had an experience of a lifetime. The impact is immeasurable and the memories are forever.”
Miller’s dad, Eric, had a “wow” reaction to the band’s performance, and he expressed gratitude for the chance to be a part of his son’s experience.
“We were so thankful to (be) able to share it with him,” Eric Miller stated via email.