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For HBCUs, Marching Bands Serve as a Cultural Pillar Beyond Just Entertainment: A Family Affair for the Black Community

by Chloe Baker
3 comments
HBCU Marching Bands

Close to 10 p.m., with the mercury still hovering around 95 degrees, the Ocean of Soul marching band from Texas Southern University takes its formation atop a parking garage just a short distance from downtown Houston.

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Performance Highlights of Texas Southern’s Ocean of Soul Marching Band

The gleaming skyscrapers in the vicinity lend some light to the otherwise dim parking structure. Sweat beads glisten on numerous faces as band members approach the culmination of a strenuous 10-hour rehearsal. Dominique Conner, one of the trio of drum majors, dashes between his fellow musicians, distributing well-deserved commendations and necessary critiques.

Brian Simmons, the band director, ascends a nearby ladder and amplifies his voice through a megaphone.

“Every action you take is significant,” he declares.

The reason over 100 student musicians are perfecting their routines on an expansive concrete platform under Houston’s unforgiving August heat encapsulates much of what it’s like to attend a historically Black college or university such as Texas Southern. They are assembled here due to limited resources, as well as an upcoming competition against seven other HBCU bands.

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Participation in groups like the Ocean of Soul transcends mere school involvement or fulfilling extracurricular requirements. By joining, these students integrate themselves into an esteemed institution within the Black community—a community that embraces them like family and celebrates their accomplishments in a choreographed manner. In this digital age, these bands are receiving renewed public interest.

“HBCU bands embody a multitude of elements,” notes Simmons, who at 31 is Texas Southern’s youngest-ever band director. “They represent competition, discipline, tradition, and are in many respects the cornerstone of HBCU culture.”

The importance of this role compels Conner to break away from his naturally reserved demeanor, assuming a more outspoken, even authoritative stance. He takes immense pride in contributing to a cultural phenomenon that holds significant value for the Black community.

“This offers minorities an opportunity to display their skills, passion, and cultural heritage,” he states. “It allows individuals to freely express their creative abilities.”

Striking the Right Chords

There are roughly 40 HBCU bands nationwide. Their roots trace back to 1946 when William Foster at Florida A&M University initiated the Marching 100, setting the tone for an exhilarating mix of music and dance that has inspired many other schools. Christy A. Walker, an authority on HBCU bands, asserts that these bands are not just part of Black culture but are trailblazers in the broader band culture.

Band performances serve as a public-facing aspect of HBCUs, influencing perceptions of these educational institutions, notes Tennessee State band director Reginald McDonald.

“Despite often operating on limited funds, we create something magical,” he adds.

The Stage is Set

More than 2,200 musicians, directors, and staff from various parts of the country have gathered at NRG Stadium in Houston, home to the NFL’s Houston Texans, to demonstrate their musical prowess before an audience exceeding 50,000.

Derek Webber, an alumnus of Hampton University, established the National Battle of the Bands to amplify the visibility of HBCUs and their music programs. The event has thus far generated over $1 million in scholarships for the often under-resourced participating schools.

“Here we are on a Saturday, and despite the absence of a football game, we’ve attracted an audience of 50,000,” says Webber. “This is not just entertainment; it’s part of our culture, part of our lifestyle.”

The atmosphere is electric as Saturday night unfolds with more than three hours of music, with all eight bands performing and guest rap artists like Doug E. Fresh, Outkast’s Big Boi, and Slim Thug filling the intermissions.

The Fruits of Labor

For Myiles Spann, a Virginia State student, the chance to participate as the only male twirler at the Battle of the Bands is a dream realized. When applause erupts from the crowd, it surpasses all of Spann’s expectations.

“It felt surreal,” he says.

For the Texas Southern band, it was the anticipation of this very event that kept them motivated during their extensive parking garage rehearsals. The band performed a show-stopping number that incorporated elements of hip-hop, further ingraining their cultural importance.

“At the end, when you turn and witness a standing ovation, it signifies a job well done,” concludes Simmons.

For those unable to attend, there will be numerous opportunities to witness HBCU bands performing across the country, showcasing their unique blend of entertainment and cultural significance.

For more on college football and HBCUs, visit: [Website Link]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about HBCU Marching Bands

What is the main focus of this article?

This article primarily focuses on the cultural significance and communal impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) marching bands. It provides an in-depth look at the Ocean of Soul band at Texas Southern University as a case study while highlighting the broader role of HBCU bands in promoting Black culture and excellence.

Why is the Ocean of Soul band featured in this article?

The Ocean of Soul band from Texas Southern University is featured to illustrate the dedication and unique challenges

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3 comments

HBCUFanatic September 17, 2023 - 2:13 am

Loving this, learnin’ ’bout HBCU bands, so important 4 culture.

Reply
Reader23 September 17, 2023 - 8:08 am

oh, this article abt HBCU bands, gr8 insight & their cultural vibes, wow!

Reply
MusicLuvr September 17, 2023 - 11:47 am

These bands, cool stuff, makes ya proud, cultural thing!

Reply

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