15 Best College Marching Bands – 2024
June 24, 2024
Best College Marching Bands
If you鈥檝e ever been to a college football game, especially on a campus with a great party scene, then you鈥檒l know how integral the marching band is to the culture. Just because it鈥檚 halftime doesn鈥檛 mean the action on the field stops. Instead of leaving for a refill or getting in line for the restroom, you鈥檒l want to stay seated at the break for the marching band halftime performance.
The best college marching bands bring a refined and impressive level of showmanship to the field. Not only do members of the band have to memorize their music and perform it at a high level, they also have to focus on hitting mark after mark as they move across the field. Some marching bands even prepare intricate and technical performances, meaning each member of the band has to be in perfect step.
If you were involved with band in high school, then chances are you鈥檒l want to continue into your college career. Lucky for you, there are many colleges with marching bands to choose from. Plus, each of these bands has a long and rich history of musical excellence.
While assembling this list, we paid attention to specific factors, like:
- Marching Band Size
- Crowd Enthusiasm/College Football Presence on Campus
- Level of Showmanship
- Level of Musicianship
However, it is important to note that this list does not necessarily indicate a further ranking.
So, tune up your instruments and grab your Dinkles marching shoes. It鈥檚 time to review 15 popular colleges with marching bands.
15 Best College Marching Bands
1)
More than likely, you are familiar with this college鈥檚 musicianship and showmanship on the football field. Originating in 1936, this college marching band is known for its fun formations, high energy, and traditions like 鈥渄otting the i鈥 in Ohio.
Also known as the 鈥淏est Damn Band in the Land,鈥 this is one of the best college marching bands credited with many innovations to the marching tradition. For example, the band completes floating and animated formations, which create optical illusions when viewed from above. This band also marches with a fast cadence, making them even more fun to watch.
:
- Students must audition over a two-day process
- Auditions consist of both music and marching separately
- For music:
- Students must practice and perfect their scales (both chromatic and major)
- Be prepared to play selected exercises, school songs, and for sight-reading
- Prepared music is emailed three weeks in advance of try-outs
- Evaluation is based on overall musicianship, which includes tone quality, rhythmic accuracy, and preparedness
- For marching:
- Students must be familiar with the fundamentals of the school鈥檚 marching style based on their particular instrumentation
- For example, students must be familiar with basic posture. This includes the Attention Position, At Ease position, and Instrument Playing Position, among others
Currently, the marching band consists of only brass and percussion instruments. However, woodwinds are able to join the , which is an open-enrollment ensemble. To join, students register for the class. Typically, the athletic band performs at various sporting events. A smaller, auditioned group performs at men鈥檚 basketball games.
2)
Known for its large music repertoire, the USC marching band likes to play top forty hits and covers a large spectrum of instantly recognizable pop music. Additionally, the marching band is also known for its iconic uniforms, which include Trojan helmets and sunglasses.
Including dance routines into the mix, the Spirit of Troy marching band is wildly entertaining. It鈥檚 no wonder they have been invited to play in the Rose Bowl more times than any other college band!
:
- Interested students must complete a Band Camp Reply Form, which is sent the summer prior to joining the band
- There are no initial costs to join the marching band
- Percussionists must audition the first day of drumline band camp, which takes place two days before the general band camp
- Other instrumentation sections do not require auditions
- Twirler, Song, and Spirit auditions are held during the spring semester (typically mid-April).
This band marches the following instruments: Flute/Piccolo, Clarinet, Alto & Tenor Saxophone, Mellophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Sousaphone. For percussion, there are Snare, Quad, and Bass drums and cymbals. Tall flags (color guard/auxiliary) will also be marched.
During the fall semester, students can expect to practice about three times per week during evening rehearsals. Students will also practice on Saturdays before designated football games.
Best College Marching Bands (Continued)
3)
The largest collegiate marching band in the country, the Fightin鈥 Texas Aggie Band is known for its military-like precision. In fact, the band operates under military guidelines in line with the Corps of Cadets. There are over 300 members who perform at all home football games, parades, and other events.
:
- All prospective members must have had both high school playing and prior marching band experience
- An audition with a band director is necessary
- In the audition, students will have a prepared piece of music ready
- Students must also be prepared to sight-read
For this marching band, students play a variety of instruments. These instruments include Piccolo/Flute, Clarinet, Alto & Tenor saxophone, Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Baritone Bass and Treble Clefs, Bass, and Drums.
Students must be dedicated to the marching band and be aware of its time commitment. Rehearsals take place Monday-Friday from 7:00-8:30 AM. Because of the student dedication, it鈥檚 no wonder this school offers one of the best college marching bands in the country.
4)
With its 340 members, this college marching band is as powerful as it is entertaining. Not only does the marching band perform at all home football games, they have also been invited to play at select marching exhibitions, bowl games, and even presidential inaugurations. Their band camp typically begins in early August, prior to the fall semester. During this time, new members can move into their dorms during band camp week.
:
- Auditions can be either online or in-person
- Anyone can join the band; they do not have to be a music major. However, new members who are non-majors must submit a video audition tape
- For video auditions (Brass & Woodwind):
- Students must first provide verbal information: Their name, hometown, high school, music selections they will play, share a memorable band moment, and describe why they want to join the marching band
- Next, students will demonstrate their musicianship
- Play a 1-ocatve chromatic scale
- Play one technical AND one lyrical excerpt
- Each excerpt should be 2-3 minutes
- Submit a completed form along with the video
- Drumline non-majors will submit a video audition first and then finish their audition live during band camp
- For drumline, students must complete a snare drum solo of 2-5 minutes and an optional mallet solo (2-5 minutes)
- and auditions follow separate procedures
After they are accepted into the band, students can expect a regimented practicing schedule. Rehearsals happen three times a week on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday afternoons from 3:35-5:30pm.
Best College Marching Bands (Continued)
5)
Performing at home football games, bowl games, pep rallies, and more, the Longhorn Band is a long tradition of excellence. And, the band isn鈥檛 just limited to the field. In fact, the Longhorns make special appearances at many campus and community events. This includes special halftime performances with the Longhorn Alumni Band.
:
- First, students must declare their interest by filling out a Prospective Member Audition Form
- Next, students will complete a videoed audition tape
- The deadline for these tapes varies, depending on instrumentation or Color Guard. Typically, these tapes are due between April 30-July 1.
- , , and requirements for tapes vary
- All students will be required to attend a Marching Summer Clinic
- These clinics take place in different cities around Texas, like Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and Rio Grande Valley
- Students must also register for the Longhorn Band course, as part of the fall semester curriculum. Undergraduate and graduate students can enroll
- All students will be required to participate in Band Week, which typically happens in mid-August
Students looking to join this marching band must be aware that the commitment doesn鈥檛 end in the fall semester. The Longhorn Band is year-round! For the , students must join either the concert band, jazz ensemble, or color guard.
During the fall semester, rehearsals are held on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 6:30-8:30 PM. Plus, the band also rehearses prior to kickoff on game days.
6)
Dubbed as the 鈥淢ost Exciting Band in the Land鈥 this 225-member marching band was founded in 1923. Interestingly, the band gets its name from the original number of members in the band. Of course, the program has grown significantly since then.
Since its inception, this program has a long history of notable performances under its belt. From over 40 NFL halftime shows to Carnegie Hall and the Macy鈥檚 Thanksgiving Day parade, this band has an impressive resume.
:
- Students will submit one audition video via YouTube
- This video will contain both music and visual requirements
- Next, students who are selected will receive an email with their official acceptance
- Students will participate in Training Week, required for all members, in late August
- will need to complete scales, lyrical and technical song exercises and a prepared excerpt
- will participate in two in-person clinics prior to audition videos
Best College Marching Bands (Continued)
7)
Purdue University is home to the World鈥檚 Largest Drum鈥攁 bass drum on a steel-carriage frame that鈥檚 eight feet in diameter! In order to be part of the , students must be familiar with all the maintenance, travel, and storage procedures. It takes at least four people to properly maneuver the 315-pound drum. Plus, did we mention the carriage is another 250 pounds? That鈥檚 565 pounds of drum!
Established in 1886, this marching band has an extensive traveling history. Having performed internationally, in countries like China, Ireland, and Colombia, the band is still committed to providing many domestic and international travelling opportunities for students.
:
- Students will prepare , based on their designated instrumentation
- Music includes fight songs, school songs, and popular, general fanfare
- Students must sign up for auditions prior to the fall semester
- Later in the summer, generally the week before school begins, students participate in band camp
Purdue is also home to the Boiler Box Band, one of the few volleyball pep bands in the country.
8)
This marching band has been around for over 100 years. With its trademark drills and honed instrumentals and visuals, the Blue Band is a staple in its community and the country.
As part of recruitment, the Penn State Blue Band hosts high school bands. This gives prospective Penn State students the opportunity to perform inside Beaver Stadium during the annual Blue-White game. Plus, prospective high school students can also join the Blue Band high school summer clinic to get the experience of what it鈥檚 like to perform with the marching band.
:
- New and returning members must audition annually
- For instrumentation:
- The first round of auditions is completed via video audition
- Students must also complete an online form which indicates their interests and their first, second (optional), and third preferences for section selection
- More specific information about preparing auditions will be emailed
- Successful applicants will then be invited to the Blue Band Camp in August
- The marching portion of the audition will be held in-person at the Blue Band Camp
- Majorettes and Silks (Color Guard) are also eligible to complete a video audition
Best College Marching Bands (Continued)
9)
Dating back to 1896, the Michigan Marching Band has a long and rich history. Between traveling for football games to stadiums at Michigan State, Ohio State, and Notre Dame, the school also have a European excursion planned for the summer of 2025. Between Munich, Germany and Innviertel, Austria, the band plans to perform for a festival opening and with a professional symphonic orchestra.
How to Join:
- The audition typically starts at the beginning of May
- Applicants can submit their audition by video or complete it in-person
- For Instrumentation ()
- Play a chromatic scale (up and down) that best demonstrates your range
- Prepare between 2-4 minutes of music that includes contrasting styles
- It is recommended to prepare either a classical or jazz selection
- For Drumline:
- is the start of the audition process. During Drum Tech rehearsal, students participate with new and returning members (Spring semester)
- Students will also participate in summer drumline rehearsals
- and have different audition requirements
Once accepted, students should be prepared for the time commitment. Rehearsals happen Monday-Thursday from 4:45-6:15 PM. In fact, these practices are open to the public. However, Friday rehearsals are closed to the public.
10)
Jump Around! The University of Wisconsin-Madison marching band performs in Camp Randall Stadium, which seats more than 80,000 fans during home football games. Plus, fans are welcome to stay after the game ends to watch the marching band perform their 5th quarter performance.
This marching band is well-traveled, having performed internationally in Tokyo, as well as domestically in cities like Tampa, San Antonio, and New York City. Plus, the band has also made ten appearances at the Rose Bowl.
:
- Prospective members must join Reg Week on the UW-Madison campus
- During Reg Week, marching auditions take place. Here, students learn the fundamentals
- Drumline applicants must attend at least one free summer clinic and have all material prepared from the
- Brass and Woodwinds application must have prepared:
- Chromatic scale (as much range as possible)
- C major scale (two octaves, if possible)
- A-flat major scale (two octaves, if possible)
- Excerpts: one technical and one lyrical
It is important to note that this marching band does not have flutes or piccolos. However, flute players may audition on flute to demonstrate musical ability. Additionally, only alto saxophones are in the marching band, and mellophone players may audition using a French horn or trumpet.
Best College Marching Bands (Continued)
11)
This marching band was founded in 1881, marking 143 years of musical excellence. And, a lot of students want to get in on the traditions. With 275 current members, the University of Iowa marching band is a large student organization who performs mostly at home football games. It鈥檚 typical for this band to see over 70,000 fans during their halftime performances. Additionally, the band is joined by their drum major, world champion twirler, and the Iowa Dance team.
How to Join:
- Auditions can be held either through video audition or in-person
- (woodwinds & brass):
- Prepare an ascending chromatic scale
- Play a prepared etude, following proper instructions for tempo, style, dynamics
- Etudes are provided by the school
- Preform On Iowa
- Be prepared to sight-read
- auditions will be first held through two clinics in early June
- An official audition will be held in late June
- For selected members, a day camp is required in July
12)
One of the newer marching programs on this list, James Madison鈥檚 marching program has quickly gained traction with lots of student interest in the program. With the first year of JMU football in 1972, the marching band鈥檚 formation was right behind.
In this 475-member band, most students are non-music majors. The marching band performs at every home football game and also has an active schedule with performances for off-campus events. This includes performances at NFL games in Pittsburgh, Washington, and Baltimore!
How to Join:
- The Marching Royal Dukes are open to all students, but incoming students should indicate their interest by May
- Percussionists and Color Guard must audition
- For :
- A video audition must be submitted by early June
- Students must also attend the in-person try-outs in July
- For :
- A video must be submitted in early June
- Students must also attend a full-day in-person audition in late June
- Basic fundamentals must be demonstrated
Once students have joined the program, they can expect a hearty practice schedule. Rehearsals take place Monday-Friday from 6:00-7:00p PM. On Saturdays before game days, rehearsals are held from 8:00-11:00 AM, as needed.
Best College Marching Bands (Continued)
13)
This marching band has participated in an impressive array of performances. From Super Bowls, The Rose Bowl, and even presidential inaugurations, Southern University has even collaborated with famous artists and community activists.
:
- First, students must complete an interest form
- Next, students schedule an audition and prepare
- With the opportunity to earn scholarships, students are judged on musicianship, good standing with high school band programs, and proficiency in their instrumentation. There are four levels of scholarship:
- Top-Tier, Above Moderate, Moderate, Band Participation Only Member
Interested students participate in Summer Band and Dance Team camps in mid-June.
14)
You don鈥檛 have to be a student at Notre Dame to participate in this school鈥檚 marching band. Students from Saint Mary鈥檚 College and Holy Cross College are eligible to take part in the fun. That must be why 380 students are part of this marching band.
Performances happen at every home football game, and the band also has a history of travel. The marching band has performed in Texas, Washington D.C., Illinois, and even New York City. With a welcoming atmosphere, this marching band offers a 鈥淏and Buddy鈥 system, pairing new members with returning members who serve as mentors and guides.
:
- Students first sign up to audition through an online form
- A select excerpt of music is sent to prospective students during the summer to practice
- Further instruction will be provided through the email
- Then, students will attend band camp to complete their auditions
Best College Marching Bands (Continued)
15)
With a fun and upbeat atmosphere, the Stanford University marching band is known as the World鈥檚 Largest Rock 鈥榥 Roll Band. It is not unusual for students to wear outfits or costumes while they play, and the band is known for their sense of humor. Choreography is incorporated into their performances for an extra level of showmanship.
Interestingly, there is no attendance requirement for the band, so students can participate as much or as little as they want. Plus, no prior experience is necessary, and the school provides all instruments, uniforms, music, and instructors for total beginners. Rehearsals take place every Monday at 7:00 PM.
:
- Since no prior experience is necessary, students only need to fill out an application form to confirm their interest
Best College Marching Bands 鈥 In Review
Located on beautiful and safe campuses in many wonderful cities, the best college marching bands are luckily not few and far between. And even if you鈥檙e not musically inclined, there are still opportunities for you to join in on the fun as a member of the color guard or as a majorette.
No matter how you鈥檙e involved with the marching band, one thing is for sure. You must be dedicated to the rigorous practice schedule and be aware of the time commitment. However, the payoff is a lot of a lot fun and the opportunity to make the most out of your college experience!
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