For the Saint Louis Marching Band, the annual Christmas parade is more than just one big performance, it’s a tradition and celebration of the brotherhood, discipline, and legacy of the school’s pride.
Each year, the Marching Band preps not only to give back to the community, but also to uphold the long tradition of excellency as the oldest high school band in the state of Hawai’i. This year, Drum Major Brennan Bocobo, Band Director Mr. Curtis Noborikawa III, and Saxophone Section leader Kendrick Jokura shared the deep meaning behind the event and what it takes to lead the band through one of the biggest and festive moments of the year.
For Drum Major Brennan Bocobo, leadership is deeply rooted in carrying on the school band’s longstanding tradition and history. Bocobo explained that he was interested in this position because he wanted “to hold a leadership role to help the band, especially finding new ways to keep the name for being the oldest high school band in the state of Hawai’i.” One of his favorite parts of the Kaimuki Christmas parade is “seeing the smiles and joy on everybody’s faces,” Bocobo, really shows a lot of emotion toward this upcoming parade. He feels that knowing that “One tiny band can bring joy to a lot of people.”
For Bocobo, the leadership is deeply embedded in carrying the school’s long-standing tradition and history. Bocobo explained that he was called to be in this position because he wanted, “To hold a leadership role to help the band,” especially on a scale finding new ways to preserve it’s big fact as the oldest high school band in the state of Hawai’i. His true excitement for the event reflects the pride and responsibility felt as a leader within this band.
Now in his second year as a saxophone section leader, Kendrick described the feeling of being very comfortable guiding the band through the whole marching season, though he also expressed deep sadness about the seniors leaving, especially those who are talented musicians. Much of his excitement for the Kaimuki Christmas Parade comes from the experience itself, including the atmosphere and the opportunity to perform for a big crowd making the parade a memorable event.
Last but not least, for Mr. Noborikawa III, the Kaimuki Christmas Parade represents the heart and spirit of Christmas’s and Crusader pride. He shared that what he enjoys most is, “The many participants marching… showcasing the joy of the Christmas season.” His favorite piece performed by the band was the Christmas Parade Sequence, a timeless medley that has become a crowd favorite year after year.
After the parade ended, Mr. Noborikawa III expressed his satisfaction with the band’s overall performance, saying, “The marching band sounded great and the crowd seemed to really enjoy the band’s performance.” Looking ahead, he hopes the students continue to improve by working on memorizing their music and marching together in sync. For him and the entire band, each parade serves as an opportunity to grow, learn, and strengthen the unity that defines Saint Louis School.
