Date

11-11-2026

Department

School of Music

Degree

Doctor of Music Education (DME)

Chair

John Wilkerson

Keywords

Icons, HBCU, Marching Band, Drill, Music, Arrangements, Pageantry, 5th Quarter, College, University, Innovation, Sound, Field Show, Band, Black, African-American, Historically, Half-time

Disciplines

Music

Abstract

Marching bands at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) entertain fans and play a crucial role in these schools' success. With the zero quarter and the 5th quarter dedicated to band battles, HBCU fans arrive early each game for musical excitement. Marching bands have entertained thousands of spectators every fall during football season. Each program has spent time perfecting their music and movements to impress the crowd during halftime shows. HBCU bands have elevated the traditional high-step marching style while continuing to adapt to modern marching band styles and techniques. Research into the origins of HBCU marching band programs sheds light on the founding traditions that persist today. After gathering and analyzing oral histories from various HBCU marching band programs, this qualitative historical study highlights HBCUs' achievements, contributions, and innovations in marching bands. This research was conducted for future music educators who want to learn traditional high-stepping techniques, understand how to create halftime shows, gain historical knowledge of HBCU music programs, and develop their own style. As current graduates emulate the programs they came from, young educators interested in teaching any style of marching band must understand the styles and techniques developed by HBCU programs so these historical innovations can continue to thrive.

Download

Included in

Music Commons

Share

COinS