When Edneyville Elementary School teacher Jordan Chambliss was playing the flute as a 6th grader at Rugby Middle School, she had no idea that her musical path would eventually lead her to perform at the recent D-Day Celebrations in Normandy France.
Chambliss applied for and received the opportunity to be a part of the D-Day 80th Anniversary Collegiate Mass Band. She traveled to France earlier this month along with other selected band members from around the nation, performing for several days during various aspects of the festivities, including the June 8th D-Day parade and celebrations for thousands of people who attended.
Band participants joined one of four region bands (Southeast, Northeast, Southwest, or Northwest) determined by the location of their college or university. Each regional band, led by renowned collegiate directors from across the nation, had the opportunity to perform separately, but also combined to form a mass band for designated events.
The once-in-a-lifetime experience started in Washington D.C. for rehearsals and sightseeing before departing for the coast of France. Participants then performed for official ceremonies and parades marking the 80th anniversary of the D-Day Landings and the Liberation of Europe. Her experience culminated with a stay in Paris to enjoy the sights, culture, and the history that is unique to one of the world’s greatest cities.
Chambliss began playing the flute in the band at Rugby in 6th grade. She continued playing throughout high school at West Henderson under the guidance of band director Allen Klaes, also learning to play a few more instruments, including the piccolo. She then joined the band at Western Carolina University, where she majored in Elementary Education. In the 2023-2024 school year, she returned to the HCPS Family, taking on the role of a fifth-grade teacher at Edneyville Elementary.
“It was an honor to be able to represent HCPS, the WCU Pride of the Mountains Marching Band, and the United States alongside other talented musicians,” shared Chambliss. “I owe this opportunity of a lifetime to joining band when I was in 6th grade at Rugby. It was the best decision I ever made, and I’m so grateful for all the music teachers I’ve had over the years, especially Mr. Klaes, who helped me get here. I hope other young musicians in Henderson County and around the United States can see the great things music can bring you, even with it just being a hobby.”
Written by Henderson County Public Schools.