Missouri State University’s Pride Marching Band has been named one of the nation’s top college marching bands after finishing No. 10 in USA TODAY Sports’ Readers’ Choice Awards competition.
The ranking was determined through a public vote on a list of bands selected by editors, according to a community announcement. The Springfield-based ensemble, which has more than 375 members, joined a top-10 group that included bands from Ohio State University, Penn State University, Auburn University, Southern University, the University of Illinois, the University of Minnesota, Ohio University, Western Carolina University and James Madison University.
“This recognition belongs to our students, whose talent, discipline and energy make the Pride so special.
And to the alumni, families, friends and fans who supported us throughout the voting process,” Brad Snow, director of bands and associate professor of music, said in the announcement. “To be recognized alongside so many outstanding collegiate bands is a tremendous honor and a meaningful reflection of the community that stands behind the Pride.”
The honor adds to a list of national appearances and recognitions for the university’s band program.
Band has performed on national and international stages
According to the announcement, the Pride Marching Band most recently was selected to participate in the presidential inauguration parade in Washington, D.C.
Over the years, the group has taken part in major events and performances including:
- Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York in 1988, 1996 and 2001
- Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California, in 1995 and 2008
- Orange Bowl Parade in Miami in 1988
- London New Year’s Day Parade in 2005
- NFL games featuring the New Orleans Saints, St. Louis Rams, Kansas City Chiefs and Denver Broncos
- Performances at St. Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Central Hall in London
MSU leaders highlight program's impact
University officials said that the band remains a key part of campus life and student recruitment efforts.
“The Mo State Pride Marching Band is a legacy program that shapes our destination campus. Students from a wide range of academic majors attend Mo State because of high impact organizations like the Pride Band,” Shawn Wahl, dean of the Reynolds College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, said in the announcement. “This recognition reflects the enthusiasm and passion of the entire Mo State community — past, current and future. Year after year, I am inspired by the dedication and relentless energy of our student members.”
The Pride Marching Band is part of Missouri State’s broader band program, which also includes three concert bands, the University-Community Band and the Bear Mania athletic pep bands.
This story was produced with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Missouri State's Pride Marching Band among top 10 college bands
