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Liberty Drum Challenge

The Liberty Drum Challenge is one of the highlights of the Parade, bands from all across the Country prepare all year long for a chance to compete!  There were so many talented bands that competed in this year's July 4th Liberty Drum Challenge, making it a very hard decision for the judges.  We would like to thank each of the bands in our list below for their stellar performance in America's Birthday Parade! 

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2020 Band Competition Application

We are currently taking applications for the 2020 Parade with all applications due by May 30, 2020.  Please complete the application on this page for consideration. 

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Winning Prizes

$10,000 to the winning bands in the 2019 Liberty Drum Challenge!

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• 1st Place    $5,000    O'Fallon Township High School Band

• 2nd Place  $3,000    Belleville East High School Band

• 3rd Place   $1,000    Collinsville High School Band

• 4th Place   $500       Mascoutah High School Band

• 5th Place   $500       Lincoln High School

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All participating bands received up to $1,200 for travel expenses.

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University Herald Brass

The University Herald Brass is the signature music ensemble for AMERICA'S BIRTHDAY PARADE - one of the largest and oldest 4th of July celebrations in the country and viewed by 25% of the U.S. on national TV last year.

Membership:

Any current university brass student including incoming freshmen.

Registration:

Apply using the online application on this page.

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Auditions:

No audition required.

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Rehearsal:

One rehearsal on July 3, 2020

Parkway Central High School, 369 Woods Mill Road, Chesterfield, MO, 63017

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Music: 

"You're a Grand Old Flag" to be memorized.

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Uniform:

Provided prior to rehearsal at 4:30 pm.

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Charter bus:

Charter bus to and from the parade site from Parkway Central High School. Departs 7:00 am on Thursday, July 4th and returns at 11:00 am to Parkway Central. 

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Communication:

IMPORTANT - Email is our ONLY form of communication. Keep your email account current and check your email for updates and important information.

Contact:

Please contact the Band Coordinator, C. Herbert Duncan at stlfestival@gmail.com

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2020 University Herald Brass Application

We are currently taking applications for the 2020 Parade.  Please complete the application on this page for consideration. All applications due by June 23, 2020.