Admissions and Top College Marching Bands?

Hey everyone! I'm really passionate about marching band and I'm wondering if any of you happen to know some top colleges that have great marching bands? Would joining a college marching band also have an impact on my admissions? Thanks in advance!

Hey there! It's fantastic that you're passionate about marching band! There are indeed quite a few top colleges with excellent marching bands. Some well-known ones include:

1. University of Michigan - the Michigan Marching Band is known for its high-energy performances and rich history.

2. Ohio State University - the OSU Marching Band is well-regarded for its impressive formations and large membership.

3. University of Southern California - the USC Trojan Marching Band is often referred to as "The Spirit of Troy" and is known for its unique sound and showmanship.

4. University of Texas at Austin - the Longhorn Band is known for its "Texas Pride" and high-quality performances during halftime shows.

5. University of Notre Dame - the Notre Dame Marching Band has a long-standing tradition of excellence and is an integral part of campus life.

Regarding the impact of joining a college marching band on admissions, involvement in a high school marching band (or any related music ensembles) demonstrates dedication, teamwork, and a commitment to both practice and performance. These qualities are valued by college admissions officers as they showcase your extracurricular engagement outside of academics.

While participating in marching band alone might not significantly increase your chances of admission, it does strengthen your profile overall, especially if you've achieved a high level of accomplishment, such as being a section leader or earning awards at competitions. Furthermore, if you express your passion for marching band in your application, it could help you stand out as a well-rounded candidate with a genuine interest in continuing your musical pursuits in college.

Ultimately, colleges are looking for students who will contribute to their campus community both academically and through extracurricular activities. Your participation in marching band, combined with strong academics and other compelling experiences, can make you an attractive candidate to colleges with top marching band programs. Good luck!