Buckhorn Middle School Concert Band performs on the Waterside Stage at Disney Springs in Walt Disney World. CONTRIBUTED

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLA. – Bands from three local schools performed at Disney World by participating in Disney Performing Arts programs at Magic Kingdom and Disney Springs.

Buckhorn Middle School Concert Band from New Market and Hazel Green High School Marching Band entertained thousands of guests with their artistic performances in April. Earlier this year, students in Madison Academy Concert Band also visited the Magic Kingdom and presented a concert.

Along with their directors, the bands marched down iconic Main Street, U.S.A. past Cinderella Castle, playing songs and cadences that capture the spirit of Americana. These bands stepped into the spotlight at Disney Springs and showcased their talents to Disney guests from across the nation and around the world.

World-class adjudicators selected these schools for Disney from applicants across the nation that submitted audition tapes. Students not only performed on-stage but also behind the scenes, where Disney theme parks become vibrant ‘classrooms.’

Under the direction of band director Jessica Snell, Madison Academy Concert Band put on a dynamic, classic pop-inspired show that featured “Thriller” by Michael Jackson and “You Really Got Me” by The Kinks.

During their five-day stay, the Madison Academy students also enjoyed time in theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort. These 12 members traveled more than 600 miles to Florida. The Mustang Band has visited Disney World one other time.

Disney Performing Arts workshops are designed to inspire young musicians to dream big and discover a world of possibilities that will help them prepare for their future, Disney intern Erran Huber said.

These tailored lessons allowed students to immerse themselves in Disney movie magic, rehearsing the scores of classic films such as “You’re Instrumental” and “Disney Sings.” They learned real-world audition techniques and choreography.

The Disney Performing Arts program was launched more than 25 years ago.