North Carolina A&T State University’s Blue & Gold Marching Machine will join a select group of the nation’s most prestigious marching bands representing America’s historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) to participate in the 13th annual Honda Battle of the Bands Invitational Showcase.
This year’s theme, “March On,” serves as a reminder to students and fans that life on and off the field is a journey, and no matter the challenge, the dream or what may lie ahead, learning never stops as long as you commit to “march on.”
The eight participating bands will take the Georgia Dome by storm Jan. 24, 2015, when they showcase their incredible musical talent and electrifying showmanship in front of thousands in Atlanta. N.C. A&T will receive a $20,000 grant from Honda to support its music education programs, plus travel to and accommodations in Atlanta for the Invitational Showcase.
The eight bands performing at this year’s Invitational Showcase include:
- Alabama State University, Mighty Marching Hornets (Southwestern Athletic Conference)
- Bethune-Cookman University, Marching Wildcats (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference)
- Howard University, Showtime Marching Band (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference)
- Jackson State University, Sonic Boom of the South (Southwestern Athletic Conference)
- N.C. A&T State University, Blue and Gold Marching Machine (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference)
- Southern University, Human Jukebox (Southwestern Athletic Conference)
- Talladega College, Marching Tornado Band (Gulf Coast Athletic Conference)
- Tennessee State University, Aristocrat of Bands (Ohio Valley Conference)
Tickets to the Honda Battle of the Bands are available for purchase now on the official website, starting at $10.
“Honda congratulates the eight bands selected to participate in the Invitational Showcase and thanks all of the schools, students, alumni and fans that participated in the process leading to Atlanta,” said Stephan Morikawa, assistant vice president of corporate community relations for American Honda Motor Co. Inc.
“Honda is committed to supporting education at HBCUs by investing in their programs and providing a platform aimed at helping students realize what Honda calls The Power of Dreams.”
The 2015 Invitational Showcase will feature the first-ever Honda Battle of the Bands Power of Dreams Award. A&T will have the opportunity to nominate an outstanding member of community who is working to help students achieve their dreams. Honda will then select a winner who will be recognized at the Honda Battle of the Bands.
For updates, follow the Honda Battle of the Bands and join the social media conversation using #HBOB.
For more information on the 2015 Honda Battle of the Bands, visit HondaBattleoftheBands.com.
