East Panhandle Times

Martinsburg High School student Rena Mullenax is set to represent West Virginia in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 28. She will join students from across the United States in New York City for this annual event.

After the Martinsburg High School band played at Disney World last year, Mullenax sought a new challenge. Initially, she aimed to have the entire band participate in the parade but learned that organizing such an endeavor would take several years. Instead, she opted to audition as an individual.

In January, Mullenax submitted her application and videos of herself playing the piccolo. The parade organizers selected students from each state, and Mullenax was chosen to represent West Virginia and Martinsburg.

During her trip, Mullenax will see the Radio City Rockettes live and meet fellow musicians from around the country. She is required to memorize two songs before traveling to New York City, where she will have only a few days of practice with other musicians before the parade.

Mullenax has been involved in music since sixth grade under teacher Casie Adams, who is now her high school band director. She plays both flute and piccolo and has experience conducting.

“For me, it’s definitely the teacher and the people that make me so passionate about music,” said Mullenax. “The drive Mrs. Adams gives encourages all to improve."

Adams praised Mullenax's dedication: “Since I first started teaching Rena in sixth grade, I knew that she would be one of the best students,” Adams said.

Though participating alone this year, Mullenax hopes that one day her school's Bulldog Band will join her at this iconic event. In the meantime, she encourages peers to pursue opportunities for personal growth while enjoying their musical journey.