(WXYZ) — The Troy Colt Marching Band will kick off its March-A-Thon today at 9 a.m. to raise funds for the band's performance tour to Ireland.
The band was invited to perform in Ireland having received a formal invitation from Councilor James Collins, Mayor of the City and County of Limerick. The Troy Colt Bands will perform in parade, concert and jazz settings in various cities across Ireland.
The full band will begin the fundraiser by marching in its practice field at Troy High School, located at 4777 Northfield Parkway, in Troy, followed by a kick-off march by the band's four drum majors, Theresa Chen, Elisa DeDonno, Nate Kovacs, and Bright Xu. Immediately thereafter, groups of students will begin marching, rain or shine, for 1½-hour increments around the clock until the March-A-Thon concludes on Friday, August 23 at 9am. The full band will perform on Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. to conclude the event.
"This fundraiser is student driven," explain directors Brian Nutting and Jacob Greenwood. "They're excited about this event and marching overnight," they say with a chuckle. "Their enthusiasm will carry us through the week and lead into our first halftime performance at the football game on Friday evening. We hope Troy merchants and other area businesses will support our efforts by contributing."
All funds pledged in a lump sum or per hour amount are tax deductible and will be used to help defray the substantial expense of the Ireland trip. It will take a huge financial commitment to transport the large team of student musicians and their equipment to the Emerald Isle.
"We're making strides to meet our financial needs, but we've yet to reach our goal," states Brian P. Nutting, Troy High School Director of Bands. "This marathon exemplifies the exceptional spirit, determination and work ethic of the students. Their efforts are admirable and inspiring."
To make donation or sponsor a student, call (248) 823-2794.
