CLAY COUNTY, Fla. — Oakleaf High School sophomore Brendan Bowens, 15, has been selected to perform with the Macy’s Great American Marching Band during the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City on Nov. 26.
Bowens will represent Oakleaf High School and the Clay County community as part of the national parade tradition.
The Macy’s Great American Marching Band brings together select high school musicians from across the United States. Bowens, a clarinetist, plays with Oakleaf’s Golden Regiment Marching Band and Wind Ensemble under the direction of Kayla Lemak.
He also studies at the Lakeside School of Music under instructor Kimberly Corzine, where he is also learning to play the oboe. Corzine praised the sophomore’s commitment to his musical development.
“I am so proud of all the hard work and dedication Brendan has put into his music lessons,” Corzine said. “He has continued to grow, learn and challenge himself and it has been wonderful to see his progress.”
Bowens began playing clarinet five years ago, teaching himself using instructional videos, studying composers and learning to read music independently. Since beginning his musical training, he has earned multiple honors, including third place at the 2025 Clay County Concert on the Green, the Quincy Jones Award for contribution and creativity in music, selection as a featured soloist at the Lakeside School of Music recital in 2025 and selection as a Clay County All-County clarinetist from 2024 through 2026.
Beyond his musical endeavors, Bowens maintains a 3.5 GPA while taking honors classes. He aims to become the first member of his family to earn a college degree in chemical engineering.
“Music allows me to express emotion and connect with others in a meaningful way,” Bowens said. “Being chosen for this parade is proof that hard work and believing in yourself pays off.”
Bowens is actively seeking local corporate sponsorships and community donations to cover expenses for travel, lodging, uniform costs and performance materials.
Community members can contribute through an online GoFundMe campaign, while local businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities can contact Fannie Alford Bowens at Fannie Alford Bowens at 516-425-2485 or akapretty08@icloud.com.
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