Carson High Senior Music Student Jose Salinas and his Music Teacher Nick Jacques, Director of Bands at Carson High School, have been selected to march in the 137th Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, Calif., Thursday, Jan. 1.
Salinas will be participating in the Bands of America (BOA) band while Mr. Jacques will march, literally in his student’s footsteps, with the Saluting America’s Band Directors (SABD) band.
Both ensembles will join thousands of performers from across the country in the iconic New Year’s Day tradition, watched by millions around the world.
Salinas, a dedicated student musician who plays the alto saxophone and the clarinet, earned his spot through a competitive national audition process. His selection places him among some of the nation’s most talented high school performers. Representing Carson High School on a national stage, Salinas says the opportunity is both an honor and a milestone in his musical journey.
“It’s exciting to perform at such a huge event,” Salinas said. “Being part of the Rose Parade is something I’ve dreamed about, and I’m proud to represent Carson High.”
For Jacques, trombonist and alto saxophonist, participating alongside his student is a full-circle moment. The Saluting America’s Band Directors band honors the contributions of music educators nationwide, celebrating the impact they have on students, schools and communities.
“Seeing Jose earn this achievement is incredibly rewarding,” Jacques said. “Marching in the parade at the same time makes it even more special. It’s an unforgettable moment for both of us.”
The Rose Parade travels 5 and a half miles along Colorado Blvd. in Pasadena, Calif., and features four main types of entries: floral-covered floats, equestrian units, marching bands and Tournament Entries. The 2026 Rose Parade, themed “The Magic in Teamwork,” will begin at 8:00 a.m. on January 1, 2026, and will be broadcast live nationwide.
BOA, which Salinas will be marching with, is a nationally recognized music education program that celebrates excellence in marching arts. Operated by Music for All, BOA brings together outstanding high school musicians from across the country to participate in regional and national championships, honor ensembles, leadership workshops and performance opportunities. Its mission is to create life-changing experiences for students through musical achievement, teamwork and high-level performance, making it one of the most respected organizations in the marching band community.
The SABD project, which Mr. Jacques is marching with, is a national ensemble composed of music educators from across the country who come together to honor the legacy, dedication and community impact of school band directors. Through its Service in Music Project, the group extends its mission beyond performance by engaging in outreach that supports music programs, inspires young musicians and highlights the essential role of arts education.
This event is part of the Season of Giving in Carson City. Want to learn more about how you can give back this holiday season to your community? Visit our Season of Giving main hub below!
