High School Bands Brave Cold to Perform at Historic Inauguration

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Two high school bands, one from Tennessee and another from Ohio, braved freezing temperatures to perform at the 2025 Presidential Inauguration, an event moved indoors due to severe weather conditions.

The Stewarts Creek High School band from Smyrna, Tennessee, and the Middletown High School band from Middletown, Ohio, were among the select groups chosen to participate in the historic event. Both bands had initially faced uncertainty due to the weather, but ultimately secured spots in the indoor parade at Capitol One Arena.

“In a reversal, the Presidential Inaugural Committee has notified us that the SCHS Band will perform in the inaugural parade today at Capitol One Arena,” said Stewarts Creek Principal Dr. Clark Harrell. “We are immensely grateful for the Tennessee Congressional Delegation and all the support they have given us this weekend.”

The Middletown High School band, representing Vice President JD Vance‘s hometown, also received a last-minute invitation. Vance, a 2003 graduate of Middletown High, personally selected the band to perform. “We are honored and excited to be included in this historic moment and represent our district, city, county, and state,” said MHS Principal Carmela Cotter.

For many students, the opportunity was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. “I don’t think I could ever be a president or vice president, but it’s pretty cool that someone from here was able to step up,” said Middletown band member Chloe Patterson.

The bands traveled to Washington, D.C., with the support of their communities. The Middletown district covered travel costs for its 146 students, staff, and chaperones, while Stewarts Creek celebrated their journey with a pizza party upon arrival.

Parents expressed pride and excitement for their children. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for generations to come. My kid is in the inaugural parade. I am a proud parent,” said Stephanie Pringle, mother of Middletown band member Machala.

Despite the challenges posed by the weather, both bands embraced the chance to showcase their talents on a national stage, marking a historic moment in their schools’ histories.