For nearly 20 years, Wyandanch Memorial High School has never had a true marching band program. Now they do, and the young musicians are preparing to perform in a parade.

"I've been able to make new friends, it's a really nice environment,” says 10th grader Ana Pereira. Wyandanch Memorial High School's first marching band - the Wyandanch Marching Warriors - are rehearsing to perform in a Thanksgiving parade this Sunday in Connecticut.

"I'm excited to see how we're going to perform under the pressure,” says 11th grader Janiya Bryan.

This is the first year the band began performing and competing in events. Many of these musicians only started playing their instrument last year. Some, just a few months ago. The band is going to pack onto the bus first thing Sunday morning to hit the road to Stamford, Connecticut to play in their biggest show ever.

"We're excited to represent the community and just to give the kids an opportunity to experience that,” says Nick Liddie, the school’s band director.

Liddie became the school's band director last year. Under his leadership, the program has grown from 25 students to 85.

"Having the band here changed the culture of the building," says Paul Sibblies, Wyandanch Memorial High School’s principal.

Thousands of people are expected to be in the crowd for the parade.

"Looking forward to seeing the crowd clap honestly. To me that's the best feeling after performing," says 10th grader Edwin Romero.

The Wyandanch Marching Warriors are also scheduled to perform at several Long Island Nets games next year.