The Waltrip High School band has been invited to participate in the Inaugural Celebration in Washington, D.C.

The award-winning band has been invited to perform at several venues at the Inaugural Celebration, including the World War II Memorial and the Post Office Pavilion. The band also is a candidate to be the representing band program for the State of Texas in the Inaugural Parade. 

Band Director Jesse Espinosa said after more than 30 years of success and building a great reputation under recently retired band director, Charles Stevens, the Waltrip Ram Band is still achieving excellence in educating young student musicians.

“The opportunity to be a featured group in the Presidential Inauguration Celebration at the WWII Memorial, the Old Post Office Pavilion and possibly represent the State of Texas in the actual Presidential Inauguration Parade is short of being a mild miracle,” Espinosa said. “As we have always done, we plan on representing the Houston Independent School District, the City of Houston, and the State of Texas to the best of our ability.”

Espinosa said he wanted to thank everyone, especially Waltrip High School Principal Steve Siebenaler and Superintendent Terry Grier for their support.  

In an effort to raise money for the trip, the band students have held several fundraisers including car washes, a rummage sale. There will also be the annual barbecue dinner and auction on Friday, Nov. 9. The band also is appealing to corporate sponsors for support.  

The Waltrip Ram Band is the top ranked 4A school in the region and has recently received several awards at various competitions.