The marching band is a staple of American college life. Across the country, these ensembles are known for their impressive productions and spirited performances. Whether at a football game or during a parade, these bands always put on a show.
Every October, as football season heats up, fans nationwide get excited about one of the highlights of fall – college marching band performances! Here are ten of the best college marching bands in America.
Contents
- 1. University of Southern California Trojan Marching Band
- 2. University of Tennessee Pride of the Southland Band
- 3. Purdue University “All-American” Marching Band
- 4. University of Texas Longhorn Band
- 5. Texas A&M Aggie Band
- 6. University of Michigan Marching Band
- 7. Ohio State University Marching Band
- 8. Ohio University Marching 110
- 9. Penn State Blue Band
- 10. University of Iowa Hawkeye Marching Band
1. University of Southern California Trojan Marching Band
The Trojan Marching Band, often called the “Spirit of Troy,” embodies the essence of the University of Southern California. This famous band has wowed audiences at Super Bowls, Olympics, and Presidential Inaugurations.
Formed in 1888, the Trojan Marching Band is USC’s oldest. It’s renowned for its distinctive low brass style and signature Trojan fanfare.
As the official band of USC, the Trojan Marching Band represents the university at many events, both on and off campus. The band has also played at several high-profile events.
As one of the most visible and recognizable bands nationwide, the Trojan Marching Band plays a key role in promoting USC’s image and spirit.
2. University of Tennessee Pride of the Southland Band
The University of Tennessee Pride of the Southland Band is one of the most iconic and revered college marching bands in the country. Founded in 1869, the band has a long history of entertaining audiences with its high-energy performances.
Today, the Pride of the Southland Band is best known for its elaborate halftime shows, featuring intricate formations and dazzling pyrotechnics.
With over 350 members, the Pride of the Southland Band is one of the largest college marching bands in the country. Their passion for music and proud tradition shine in every performance.
3. Purdue University “All-American” Marching Band
Purdue University boasts the iconic “All-American” Marching Band. This band, a fixture of Purdue athletics for over a century, consistently highlights game days with their performances.
The band is known for its high-energy routines and intricate formations. They always bring a sense of excitement to the stadium.
In addition to performing at Purdue football games, the All-American Marching Band has performed at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Rose Bowl, and the Presidential Inauguration.
They’re truly one of the finest marching bands in the country, and their performances are always a sight to behold.
4. University of Texas Longhorn Band
The University of Texas Longhorn Band is one of the most iconic college marching bands in the country. Known for their precision and spirit, the Longhorn Band performs at all home football games and represents the university at events worldwide.
Founded in 1900, the Longhorn Band has become a key part of UT tradition. Marching to “The Eyes of Texas,” it brings pride to students, alumni, and fans.
From parades to pep rallies, the University of Texas Longhorn Band brings excitement and spirit to every event they perform.
5. Texas A&M Aggie Band
The Aggie Band stands out as a tradition-rich and unique marching band in America. A&M’s “Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band” performs at all home football games, some away games, and various school and community events throughout the year.
The band uses a traditional marching style called “corps style,” which features complex patterns and formations.
As the largest military marching band in the country, the Aggie Band plays a central role in many of Texas A&M’s cherished traditions.
One cherished tradition is the “Midnight Yell,” a lively pep rally held the night before home football games. The Aggie Band leads the crowd in spirited chants and songs, getting everyone excited for the big game.
6. University of Michigan Marching Band
America’s best college marching bands include the University of Michigan’s. The University of Michigan Marching Band is among the most renowned in the country.
Every fall, they perform at home football games, enhancing the game day experience for fans and supporting the team.
The band travels to away games, bringing a touch of home to Michigan fans. They perform at football games, hold several concerts annually, and participate in various community events.
Through dedication to their craft, the University of Michigan Marching Band has gained a reputation as one of the best marching bands.
7. Ohio State University Marching Band
The Ohio State University Marching Band, known as “The Best Damn Band in the Land,” is one of the nation’s most iconic and beloved college marching bands. For over a century, its stunning visuals and impressive sound have delighted audiences.
The band is best known for its “Script Ohio” formation, first performed in 1936, which has become its signature display.
The Ohio State University Marching Band performs at home football games, bowl games, and other events.
Many band members pursue successful careers in music and other fields. The Ohio State University Marching Band is a world-class organization whose passion for music and performance shines through in everything they do.
8. Ohio University Marching 110
You might be surprised to find one of the best college marching bands in a small Ohio town, but that’s where you’ll find the Ohio University Marching 110.
This band has been wowing audiences with its high-energy shows and unique style for over a century. Each year, thousands of fans flock to Athens, Ohio, to see the Marching 110 at home football games.
The Ohio University Marching 110, founded in 1892, stands as one of the most iconic college marching bands in the country. It has performed at many sporting events and bowl games.
The band is famous for its unique style, blending jazz, rock, and country music. As a result, the Marching 110 is a source of school pride for Ohio University students and alumni.
9. Penn State Blue Band
The Penn State Blue Band is highly respected for its precision and athleticism, making it one of the top college marching bands in the country.
The Blue Band has been a Penn State tradition for over a century. Their performances are an integral part of game days at Beaver Stadium.
Besides football games, the Blue Band also performs at concerts, pep rallies, and community events throughout the year.
The Penn State Blue Band is one of the most diverse college marching bands in the country and a real treasure.
10. University of Iowa Hawkeye Marching Band
Black and gold symbolize the University of Iowa, greatly represented by its energetic and spirited Hawkeye Marching Band, a standout group on campus.
Comprising over 300 students, the band performs at home football games, select away games, and bowl appearances.
The band is renowned for its catchy tunes, tight formations, and school spirit. A major perk of being in the band is performing before thousands of fans at Kinnick Stadium.
The band often travels nationwide for parades and events. This gives students the chance to experience different cultures and represent their school.
