Gay band refines performance for inauguration

Members of the Lesbian & Gay Band Association practiced playing their instruments and marching in lockstep Monday in an effort to refine their performance for their parade appearance on Inauguration Day.

The band, which is slated to be the first gay contingent to march in a presidential inaugural parade, had its dress rehearsal at St. Elizabeth’s, a federally operated psychiatric hospital, and marched around the facility’s grounds.

Marita Begley, one of the drum majors for the band, urged marchers to tighten their step during the rehearsal.

“On the turn, if you’re turning right, you guide right!” she shouted. “You got to stay shoulder-to-shoulder on the turn. Don’t swing out!”

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Southern Voice, GA

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Gay band association accepted for inauguration festivities

The Lesbian and Gay Band Association, a musical group with members from gay marching and symphonic bands across the country, has been accepted by President-elect Barack Obama to march in the 2009 inaugural parade.

This is the first inaugural parade to feature a gay group. Former President Clinton allowed gay groups to perform on the sidewalk during the parade, but not to march. The Lesbian and Gay Band Association participated in both of Clinton’s inaugurations.

“This is the first time that an LGBT group will be represented in a Presidential Inaugural Parade, truly our chance to make history,” said the association’s inaugural committee to members Saturday.

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Washington Blade, DC