In an assembly on October 20, 2022, the Talladega College Great Tornado Marching Band announced it has accepted the invitation to perform at London’s New Year’s Eve Parade in 2024. Talladega College is the oldest private HBCU in Alabama and, since establishing the band in 2012, they have achieved high national acclaim and accomplishments. With all their great endeavors the London NYE Parade will be the band’s first overseas performance in their history.
The Tornados will be performing at an event that will be streamed to over 500 million people worldwide. The London NYE parade is the biggest event in one of Europe’s largest city and destination attractions. Every year the parade invites over 10,000 participants and performers internationally and the Great Tornadoes Band is in high demand as more people hope to see American school bands in the parade, a tradition that European schools do not take part in.
Talladega College Senior Vice President For Institutional Advancement Kristie Kenney said to The Daily Home that this invitation “positions Talladega College at an international level that aligns with (College President) Dr. Gregory Vincent’s vision for the school. Not only will the world see a phenomenal band, but students from Talladega College will represent their school and the United States. They have worked hard for this opportunity and we as a school are happy to support them on their educational path. We look forward to their success.”
