Sarasota’s Young Stars Shine on the Global Stage

This New Year’s Eve, talented teen musicians of Riverview High School Band and Venice High School Band will join an elite lineup at London’s famed New Year's Day Parade—showcasing their skills on an international stage. While the glittering opportunity to march in one of the world’s most iconic parades is a testament to their talents, it also speaks volumes about Sarasota County’s commitment and passion for the arts.

The Cultural Coast Advantage

Perlman Music Program Suncoast

Sarasota isn’t just a haven for beaches and sunsets—it’s a cradle for culture. So it's no coincidence that Sarasota has earned its Florida's Cultural Coast® moniker. From the Sarasota Opera, Sarasota Orchestra, Key Chorale and The Pops Orchestra to The Venice Symphony, Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota and more, the city is home to many revered musical organizations, instrumentalists and musicians. 

And that's just scratching the surface—there are several state-of-the-art theaters and performing arts ensembles as well. The Sarasota Ballet, The Sarasota Players, Florida Studio Theatre, Asolo Repertory Theatre, Sarasota Contemporary Dance and the Venice Theatre are just to name a few. 

These organizations don’t just enrich the community’s cultural tapestry; they actively partner with schools or offer robust summer camp programs—providing students with unparalleled access to extended learning, mentorships, workshops and performances. Imagine being a budding violinist and having the chance to learn from the world-class Perlman Music Program Suncoast or a young sax player drawing inspiration from cabaret concerts and jazz festivals, hosted by The Jazz Club of Sarasota, one of the largest and most active jazz clubs in the U.S. For Sarasota’s youth, these aren’t distant dreams—they’re everyday realities.

Cultivating Creativity from the Classroom

Local public and private schools also play a starring role in nurturing young talent, offering robust arts and cultural programs that rival those of major metropolitan areas. Starting from a young age, Sarasota County students are immersed in an environment where creativity is encouraged and excellence is the standard.

Whether it’s the precision of a marching band, the stroke of a paintbrush or the harmony of a choral ensemble, our schools' Visual and Performing Arts departments continue to provide pathways for students to explore their creative passions. These programs and offerings also equip students with an understanding of the transformative power of the arts—further shaping well-rounded, confident citizens in society. 

Marching Toward the Future

The two Sarasota County high school bands heading to London have undoubtedly put in countless hours of practice, perfecting every note and step. But their journey is more than rehearsals and performances. It’s a testament to a community that values and invests in the arts. It’s a reflection of teachers, mentors and families who believe in the power of creativity to inspire and connect.

As these students prepare to march through the streets of London to ring in the new year, they'll carry with them the spirit of Sarasota—where the arts flourish and young dreams take flight.