GFBLA was originally founded as a marching band to represent the LGBTQ community at pride parades. Join us as we hit the streets once again and celebrate over 45 years with this historic and dazzling group!
Whether you play an instrument, toss a flag, twirl a baton, or just want to volunteer, there’s a place for everyone. Contact us to learn more! We’ll put you in touch with our Marching Band Artistic Director, Michael Gonzalez, who will be able to answer any questions you might have.
Interested in joining the GFBLA Marching & Pep Band?
Marching Band Director
Michael Gonzalez, Marching Band Director
Michael Gonzalez (he/him) is a High School Chemistry and Physics Teacher with Los Angeles Unified, working in a Arts High School in the San Fernando Valley. He’s an LAUSD Alumnus and spent time marching all 4 years in high school, including the LA All City Band.
He obtained a BS in Chemistry as well as a BSEd in Science Education from Northern Arizona University; however, he also spent this time in the music education department. While in college, he marched with the Lumberjacks for 2 years and served as NAU’s Band Camp Chair for another two years organizing the band camp festivities with the brothers of ΚΚΨ and sisters of ΤΒΣ. While teaching science full-time, he continues to stay contented to his Music Ed roots through directing the Marching & Pep Band with GFBLA and assisting his school’s band program when available.
Marching band has always been passion for Michael, and he joined GFBLA in 2022 with the Concert and Jazz ensembles. “I look forward to the future with GFBLA as I continue to explore my passion for music. It always a GREAT day for Marching Band!”
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where does the GFBLA Marching & Pep Band rehearse?
Pep Rehearsals (Music-only):
When: Thursdays (biweekly), 7:30-9:30pm. Try to arrive 15-20 minutes early to set up and warm up.
Where: HOLA Arts and Recreation Center; Koreatown, Los Angeles
Marching Rehearsals:
When: TBD; typically Saturdays or Sundays, 10am-12pm or 12-2pm. Try to arrive 15-20 minutes early to apply sun protection, set up, stretch, and warm up.
Where: Griffith Park, Los Angeles
What should I expect during rehearsals?
Marching Rehearsals: Rehearsals begin with general announcements then proceed with stretching, breathing exercises, warm ups, and tuning. The first portion will primarily focus on music and marching fundamentals. We take a 10-minute break midway through the rehearsal. The second portion will be spent marching in a block formation and simulating a mile-long parade route.
Pep/Music-only Rehearsals: Rehearsals begin with general announcements followed by warm ups, listening exercises, and tuning. We take a 10-minute break midway through the rehearsal.
What do I need to bring to rehearsals?
Bring your instrument, flip folder for your music, lyre, water, sun protection, other materials to have a productive rehearsal (e.g., tuner, reeds), and a positive attitude!
Starting in 2025, music can be accessed via our Member Portal. You will need to print and trim down your music to fit in your flip folder. It is your responsibility to make sure you have copies of all the applicable music before a performance.
What is the Marching & Pep Band’s annual schedule like?
We typically perform in several gigs around Southern California throughout the year:
- LGBTQ+ Pride Parades: Long Beach Pride Parade, WeHo Pride Parade, and LA Pride Parade.
- LGBTQ+ Pride Events: LA Pride Block Party, Burbank Pride
- Other Local Parades: Downey Christmas Parade, Doo-Dah Parade
- Other Local Events!
What is uniform/attire for the Marching & Pep Band?
Our uniforms consist of a white uniform shirt, black pants, black shoes comfortable for marching, black socks, a GFBLA cap, and rainbow sash. Rainbow sashes are handed out the day of the event, and are collected immediately after the performance. Aside from the rainbow sash, you will need to provide your own uniform parts. GFBLA caps can be purchased at rehearsals for $10. More uniform information can be found on the Uniform Page of the Band Handbook.
Are there member dues for the Marching & Pep Band?
Yes; dues for Marching & Pep Band are $0 per calendar year. Your first month is complimentary to allow you to try out the band. Membership dues help the band pay for our rehearsal and storage space, instruments, music, parade applications, publicity for events, and various other costs involved with running a non-profit musical organization. If finances are a barrier, we offer scholarship opportunities. For more information visit our Dues FAQ Page.