2 local HS marching bands picked to perform during papal visit

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Band players arrived at the Cardinal O'Hara football field in Springfield ready to start band camp.

They were not expecting the announcement that awaited them - they've been picked to perform for the pope.

There was obvious excitement, even a few tears as the magnitude of performing for the leader of the Roman Catholic Church sunk in.

"It's a great opportunity because not a lot of schools get to do that," said Christina Rooks, freshman.

"It's an amazing opportunity. For being a part of Cardinal O'Hara community and being really focused on our Catholic faith ...we're all very excited," said Caroline, D'Amico, senior.

The Cardinal O'Hara marching band will perform for Pope Francis on Sunday September 27th at the airport as he boards a plane to return to the Vatican.

In Downingtown, Bishop Shanahan's marching band got the news they'll be performing for Pope Francis arrives in Philadelphia on September 26th.

For Cardinal O'Hara senior Liz Bradley, performing for this pope will have special meaning.

"I have such appreciation for Pope Francis and everything he's done for the Catholic Church and everything he is doing for the Catholic Church and just the fact we get to perform for him is truly extraordinary," said Bradley.

"It's such an awesome, awesome opportunity - something she'll remember the rest of her life," said Lisa Bradley, mother.

For the Cardinal O'Hara band director, planning for his once in a lifetime audience begins now.

"We haven't even gotten to band camp yet so we're bringing a whole lot of music with us and we're gonna go through and choose a nice repertoire of things to play," said Nick Corvino.

The Cardinal O'Hara marching band also played for Pope John Paull II during his visit to Philadelphia in 1979.