Gosnell Band Director Recounts Rainy Rose Parade Experience

McKenzie Bryeans shares highlights with Blytheville Lions Club and welcomes instrument donations.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 8:38pm

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph shot through rain-streaked glass, depicting a blurred marching band performance in a rainy parade. Warm pools of soft, blurred color and light create an atmospheric, dreamlike scene.The Gosnell High School band director's recollection of the rare rainy conditions at the 2026 Rose Parade captures the atmospheric challenges and triumphs of the prestigious event.Pasadena Today

Gosnell High School Band Director McKenzie Bryeans recounted her experience participating in the 2026 Rose Parade in Pasadena, California, to the Blytheville Lions Club. Bryeans discussed the rare rainy weather, the success of the Gosnell High School Marching Band, and welcomed donations of old instruments for the program.

Why it matters

The Rose Parade is a prestigious annual event that showcases high school marching bands from across the country. Bryeans' invitation to participate highlights the quality and achievements of the Gosnell High School band program, which can inspire local students and bring positive attention to the community.

The details

Bryeans flew to California on December 28 to participate in the Rose Parade on January 1. She was one of five band directors from Arkansas, among more than 300 band directors from the U.S. and other countries. Bryeans mentioned it rained during the parade, soaking all the band directors. She was told this was the first time it had rained during the Rose Parade in 20 years.

  • Bryeans flew to California on December 28, 2025.
  • The Rose Parade took place on January 1, 2026.

The players

McKenzie Bryeans

The band director of Gosnell High School, who had the opportunity to participate in the prestigious Rose Parade in Pasadena, California.

Kyle Allman

The band director of Piggot High School, who also participated in the Rose Parade alongside Bryeans.

Blytheville Lions Club

A local community service organization that invited Bryeans to speak about her Rose Parade experience.

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What they’re saying

“I had the privilege to speak to the Blytheville Lions Club on Tuesday! It was such a great experience, and everyone was so kind in their support of our awesome band program. Thank you to (Blytheville Lions Club member) Stan Dutton for inviting me!”

— McKenzie Bryeans, Gosnell High School Band Director

What’s next

Bryeans welcomed donations of old instruments for the Gosnell High School band program, encouraging community members to reach out to her if they have any instruments they would like to contribute.

The takeaway

The Gosnell High School band program's invitation to perform in the prestigious Rose Parade showcases the hard work and talent of its students and director, McKenzie Bryeans. This recognition can inspire local students to get involved in their school's music programs and strengthen community support for arts education.