By Emily Money

Walled Lake Central’s outstanding marching band has won merit yet again in three members being selected for the US Army All-American Marching Band. Seniors Victoria Clements, Namrata Kadambi, and Madison Stump were inducted into this elite band for the 2015-2016 school year at a presentation in the auditorium on October 1.

Three out of the four Michigan inductees were from WLC, and Band Director David Rogers is understandably very proud.

“We have had 13 All-Americans since the program was started in 2007. They all have the same things in common. They are all self-starters. They are all coachable. They all give their best consistently. They all are driven to be great and put in the time to do so,” said Rogers. “These three are no different. They are amazing people who bring great honor to our school and band program and the community at large. They are a testament to their parents. They are the kind of people I hope my own children will aspire to be.”

These students receive the opportunity to play with the other 122 All-American members from across the country at the US Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio, Texas this January 4-9. Throughout the week, they will be taught by top collegiate band instructors and have educational sessions with members of the US Army Field Band.

Victoria Clements is a section leader of Central’s color guard. “I feel honored to be selected,” said Clements. “My friends encouraged me to audition, and I’m so happy I did. Working with some of the best marching band members in the country will be an experience I’ll never forget.”

Namrata Kadambi is a captain of the color guard. “The WLC marching band and color guard staff taught me everything I needed to know. I couldn’t have done it without their guidance,” said Kadambi. “I’m really excited to go to San Antonio and I’m kind of in disbelief that this is happening.”

Madison Stump is first chair clarinet in the wind ensemble and the clarinet section leader in the marching band. “I’m honored to be a part of this prestigious group of high school performers and I’m thrilled to be continuing the legacy of All-Americans from the WLC band program,” commented Stump.

“All three of the young women selected are incredible people and performers. They all excel in many areas in life,” added Rogers.

We wish them the best on their trip this upcoming January!