CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- It's a chance of a lifetime for the Harding University High School Band, a chance to march in the inaugural parade for President-Elect Barack Obama.

"It's a big thing in history and I'm being able to be a part of it, even though it's not the biggest part of it. I am a part of it in some way and I can look back on it and be like wow, I actually got to participate in this inauguration," said Deana Williams, who plays a trumpet in the band.

But to get there, the band will need to do more than hit the right note. They need money.

"We've been doing lots of fundraisers," said Ronnell Brown, who plays saxophone.

So far, those fundraisers have gotten them about half way to their $50,000 goal.

"Right now we are looking at $25,000 as far as pledges are concerned. We still got a way to go.  We've got $50,000 that we still need to obtain for lodging, for travel expenses and what have you," said Anthony S. Jones, the band director.

If they can raise the money, the Harding High Rams would be one of 200 bands chosen to perform in the historical parade.

No nervous jitters for these kids, at least not yet. They've played for Obama before when he was campaigning in uptown Charlotte.

"It's real important because we played at the rally when he came and that was a big deal," said Brown.

"At that time he was a candidate. He liked what he heard," said Jones.

Not everyone can say they've performed in front of a president once, let alone twice.

"I know that the city of Charlotte will help us out because I'm pretty sure that they really want us to go to Washington," said Williams.

The band director hopes the donations will come through in time for his band to march into history.

"Send a C-note so that we can play a high note in DC," said Jones.

The inauguration is Jan. 20.

To pitch in and help, you can make a tax-deductible donation. To find out how, call Harding University High School at 980-343-6007 or visit http://pages.cms.k12.nc.us/harding/band.html.