After a brief absence, we are pleased to announce that the Mandarins are once again participating in the Sacramento Santa Parade. This parade provides an opportunity for Mandarins alumni and current members to march together in a really fun-filled event. In years past we have had marching members from four different decades get together and share the one thing that we all have in common - the Mandarins heritage. The Santa Parade is part of a great homecoming weekend for the Mandarins.
As Mario Urbina (Soprano, Mellophone, Trumpet veteran and ageout) reflects on his participation in the Santa Parade, "As a marching member, it was fantastic to play with the alumni. It really gave you a great sense of history and the traditions that the Mandarins can be proud of. The added bonus of this event is that it takes place during the holiday season - a time to spend with your loved family and friends, and that's exactly what Mandarins means to me."
Here is some information about the Santa Parade: (Keep checking back for more updated information)
Parade Information: Saturday, November 28th, Downtown Sacramento. Rain or Shine, please meet for warm-ups at 8:00 a.m., on the corner of 8th and G Streets. We are Unit Numbers 76 and 77, immediately followed by the final parade attraction, who is Santa Claus himself.
Spectator and participant parking is avaiable in city parking lots or on the street where available. No dropoffs or driving in the parade assembly area (bounded by 9th Street between I and H, and 10th Street between G and F.
Rehearsal Information: Friday, November 27th (same day as corps banquet), 1 to 4 pm, at Sacramento State University. Meet at Room 143 of the Capistrano Building, near the corner of State University Drive West, and Sinclair Road. See the map here. Everyone should try to park in Parking Structure I. Rehearsal will begin with instrument distribution at 1 pm, and we will vacate by 4 pm.
Music: Russian Christmas Music, arranged by Dan Fong and Les Wong (you may download the brass sheet music PDFs as follows. Percussion charts forthcoming.
Uniform: Grey sweatshirt, grey sweatpants, tennis/basketball shoes, Santa hat, black gloves (hornline)
Participants: Existing marching members, Mandarins Alumni of all ages (and sizes!), Mandarins Brass Academy members who have parade marching experience So far, the hornline and drumline are definitely participating. The color guard will decide soon on whether or not to participate.
RSVP: If you are planning on participating in the parade, please send an email message to Corps Director Jim Tabuchi at jimtabuchi@yahoo.com. Also indicate if you need to borrow an instrument for the rehearsal and parade.
The rich history and foundations that Mandarins shares with young people is invaluable. ~ Bruce Reyes-Chow
