SAN FRANCISCO, Ca. (WTOC) – Elisa Williams, a former Battery Creek High School drum major, recently experienced one of the biggest opportunities of her music career.
She traveled to San Francisco to perform with South Carolina State University’s marching band during Super Bowl week.
Williams began her musical journey at Battery Creek under the guidance of her father, who taught her trumpet in the 5th grade. That foundation led her to South Carolina State and ultimately to the stage in San Francisco as part of BET’s Annual Super Bowl Soulful Celebration.
“I don’t think anyone is going to get an opportunity like this again,” Williams said.
South Carolina State’s The Marching 101 frequently travels to perform at major events throughout the year, including venues like the Chicago McDonald’s Parade. However, a five-day trip to San Francisco with just a few days to prepare was unprecedented.
“I didn’t even know you could go that far with band,” Williams said.
The ensemble performed in a segment featuring a new song by rapper LaRussell and Miles Minnick, and also performed at two different venues across the city.
The performances drew significant attention from audiences unfamiliar with college marching bands.
“Everybody was excited; they had their phones out. I don’t think they have ever seen a band like that in a while,” Williams said.
For Williams, she said the experience reinforced her commitment to pursuing music professionally.
She is set to graduate from South Carolina State in May and plans to enter the field of music and video production.
“It was very surreal, but it really gave you a sense that it’s not hard to get here,” Williams said. “All you have to do is put in the work. If you really have a dream, you can get here.”
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