They are one of the most famous marching bands in New York, and now they are in danger of being silenced.
The Soul Tigers Marching Band, which led the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade last year, has lost most of its funding from the city.
But the band's director says she won't give up.
"I will find the money somehow," Kenyatte Hughes told NBCNewYork. "Without this program, these kids will wind up in the streets."
Headquartered in East New York, the Soul Tigers are comprised of inner city musicians from junior high schools and high schools around the city. The band has been featured in numerous TV commercials and have played at the U.S. Open tennis tournament. The students rely on the exposure to receive grants and scholarships to stay in school.
Hughes learned of the cuts this morning and contacted NBCNewYork. He says the students have not yet been notified of the news. He vows to keep the program running and will look for private funding to make up the difference.
To help, head over to the Soul Tigers website at SoulTigers.webs.com.
