ORANGE PARK, FL – Fifteen -year-old Oakleaf High sophomore Brendan Bowens has been selected to perform with the Macy’s Great American Marching Band during the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving …
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ORANGE PARK, FL – Fifteen-year-old Oakleaf High sophomore Brendan Bowens 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.
The Macy’s Great American Marching Band brings together select high school musicians from across the U.S. Bowens will represent Oakleaf High and the Clay County community as part of one of the country’s most celebrated holiday traditions.
A dedicated clarinetist, Bowens performs with Oakleaf High's Golden Regiment Marching Band and Wind Ensemble under the direction of Kayla Lemak. To further expand his artistry, he also studies at the Lakeside School of Music under the guidance of Kimberly Corzine, where he is currently learning the oboe, while still perfecting the clarinet.
"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. His commitment and determination truly make him deserving of this outstanding achievement and recognition."
Bowens began playing the clarinet five years ago and taught himself through instructional videos, studying composers and independently learning to read music. Since then, his commitment to music has earned him several honors, including: third-place winner in the 2025 Clay County Concert on the Green; the Quincy Jones Award in 2024 and 2025; All-County Musician in 2024, 2025 and 2026; and Featured Soloist at Lakeside School of Music in 2025.
A standout student holding a 3.5 GPA, Bowens balances honor classes, marching band and wind ensemble. He hopes to become the first person in 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."
To make this once-in-a-lifetime trip possible, Bowens is actively seeking local corporate sponsorships and community donations to cover travel expenses, lodging, uniform costs and performance materials.
Community members interested in supporting Bowens can donate through gofund.me/bde1926e7. Local businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities may contact Fannie Alford Bowens at (516) 425-2485 or akapretty08@icloud.com.
