Shenandoah University Marching Band to Shine at London’s New Year’s Day Parade

The Shenandoah University Marching Band, along with the Shenandoah Conservatory Studio Big Band and SU Cheerleading Squad, is preparing for a milestone moment as they head to London to perform in the 2025 New Year’s Day Parade.

This marks the band’s first international performance since its 2022 debut, with just 73 members. In two years, the group has grown to over 150 students, reflecting its rapid success and growing popularity. Shenandoah’s journey to London began with a surprise announcement in September 2023 when Bob Bone, founder and chairman of London’s New Year’s Day Parade (LNYDP), and Steve Summers, chairman of the London Mayors’ Association, formally extended the invitation.

Director of Athletic Bands Shaun Evans, D.M.A., will lead the group of 145 students, joined by ten alumni, as they embark on their journey to the United Kingdom on Dec. 27. “This trip is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the students,” Evans said. “I am excited for them to experience a different environment and culture. As a group, we look forward to sharing the pride and rich collaborative spirit of Shenandoah with our collective performance in the London New Year’s Day Parade.”

The internationally renowned parade draws a street audience of over 500,000 people and reaches more than 500 million viewers worldwide. The event kicks off at noon local time on Jan. 1 and is broadcast on PBS in the United States. Participants travel a two-mile route beginning at the Ritz Hotel on Piccadilly, winding through Regent Street, Pall Mall, and Whitehall, before concluding at Parliament Square near the Palace of Westminster.

In addition to the parade, Shenandoah Conservatory’s Studio Big Band and jazz band, led by Matt Niess, D.M.A., will showcase their musical talents at Smith Square Hall on Dec. 29 and PizzaExpress Live in Holborn on Jan. 2 as part of the LNYDP Concert Series.

Shenandoah students and cheerleaders will also have time to explore iconic landmarks such as Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace during their trip.

For the Shenandoah University Marching Band, this international debut is not just about music—it’s about representing their community on one of the world’s biggest stages. Evans expressed his gratitude to the Shenandoah community for their support. “We can’t wait to represent Shenandoah, Winchester, and Virginia while we are in London,” he said.

With the excitement building, the students are ready to step into the spotlight, showcasing the talent and spirit that Shenandoah University brings to audiences both at home and abroad.