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Liberty Drum Challenge

A highlight of the Parade, bands from all across the country prepare all year long for a chance to compete in the Liberty Drum Challenge. There were so many talented bands that competed in the 2019 Liberty Drum Challenge, making it a difficult decision for the judges.  We would like to thank each of the bands, listed below, for their stellar performance in America's Birthday Parade! 

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2021 Band Competition Application

We are currently taking applications for the 2021 Parade. All applications are due by May 30, 2021.  Please complete the below application for consideration. 

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Winning Prizes

Congratulations to the 2019 Liberty Drum Challenge winners, who were awarded a total of $10,000.

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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 Independence Day celebrations in the country and viewed by 25% of the U.S. on national TV last year.

Membership:

Any current university brass or saxophone student including incoming high school seniors.

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 Friday, July 2, 2021, 3:30 to 8:00 PM

Parkway Central High School, 369 Woods Mill Road, Chesterfield, MO, 63017 - Dinner Provided.

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Music: 

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

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Uniform:

Provided prior to rehearsal on Friday, July 2, 2021 at 3:30 pm.

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Charter bus:

Provided on parade day, July 3rd to and from Parkway Central High School. Departs at 7:30 AM. 

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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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2021 University Herald Brass Application

We are currently taking applications for the 2021 University Herald Brass.  Please complete the application and submit it no later than June 20, 2021.