CALHOUN COUNTY, S.C. — Marching bands from across the Midlands performed at Orangeburg’s annual Christmas parade. But one group is preparing to march their way to New Orleans for an even bigger stage.

The Calhoun County High School marching band was hand-selected to march in the AllState Sugar Bowl Parade on December 31, and found out in September.

“We are like a small band, and small bands don’t get to do stuff like this. It’s a great opportunity for us,” said Jateri Williams, a sophomore trumpet player.

“I think it was about 60 bands, and out of 60 bands they only selected 10,” said Band Director Travis Lawson.

Held in New Orleans on New Year’s Eve, Lawson says they’ll have three different performances before the New Year's parade begins.

“So the parade is also a competition, th

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