Video and pictures: American school marching band fills Shrewsbury streets with music
Musicians from an American high school filled Shrewsbury with music during an outdoor performance through the town.
West Milford High School Highlander Band paraded from Shrewsbury Castle to The Square yesterday morning ahead of an evening concert at St Mary's Church.
The band, which has visited the town three times previously, has been named in the top 100 schools nationwide for music education since 2002 and has been named Northern States Marching Band champions twice.
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Mayor of Shrewsbury Councillor Miles Kenny said he was thrilled to have the band in the town.
He said: "I think it is terrific to have the marching band here all the way from America.
"It is a long way and to come here and perform with us, I think they are absolutely wonderful."
While in Shropshire, the musicians stayed with host families and had the chance to tour round Shrewsbury, seeing some of the sights as well as visiting museums and landmarks.
Last night's concert included a programme of American music featuring marches, folk songs, soloists and music from films with all proceeds going to the running of the church.
Councillor Kenny said: "I am really pleased they are performing in the church. It is such a beautiful church and really needs support.
"It is perhaps arguably the most attractive church in sight.
"It has national and international importance."
The band has also been named First Place Band in the New York City St Patrick's Day Parade three times.
It has been awarded numerous first places, gold medals and grand champion awards.
Several students from the band have been recognised among the top one per cent of music students in the United States, and some are currently studying at universities and performing in Europe and Asia.
Meanwhile the band's conductor, Dr Brian McLaughlin, was named as a quarter finalist for the Grammy Award in Music Education in 2013.
