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Cool School: Valley Christian High School In San Jose

SAN JOSE (CBS 5) - A high school band from San Jose will live out their dream of performing on a big stage in January.

The marching band at Valley Christian High School was recently selected to perform in the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena.

"We rehearse a lot and these students are very dedicated to the program and more importantly they're dedicated to each other," said Jeff Wilson, associate director of music at Valley Christian.

Their dedication has paid off. More than 400 bands applied and only 22 were chosen to perform in the parade watched annually by 40 million people worldwide.

"Its probably one of the biggest accomplishments a high school band can get to," said Aaron Roth, a junior saxophone player.

The school is sharing the accomplishment with Beijing 57 located in China. The two schools use technology to practice their songs together - bridging the cultural gap with music.

"Whatever you can't say with words you can let out with music," said Katelyn Dietz, a junior saxophone player.

In January, the two bands will join marching 6 miles through Pasadena and playing out their high school dream. Their goal is to raise $250,000 to get the band and staff to Pasadena.

"Most people are like band nerds...they have that negative connotation but I think we're probably the coolest people around." Dietz said.

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(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

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