This weekend, seven high school marching bands from Michigan are set to showcase their talents at the prestigious Bands of America Grand Nationals competition, taking place at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. Known for being the home of the Indianapolis Colts, the stadium will host more than 100 bands competing in a series of events throughout the weekend.
The competition kicks off with preliminary rounds on Thursday and Friday, where marching bands will strive to secure a spot among the top 32 to advance to the semifinals on Saturday. Only the top 12 bands will have the opportunity to perform one last time during the grand finale on Saturday night, with each member of the finalist bands receiving medals for their remarkable efforts. The coveted trophy awarded to the best band in the nation is an eagle-shaped honor that represents excellence in marching band performance.
On Thursday, three Michigan bands made their way onto the field: Huron Valley performed at 9:45 a.m., followed by Mt. Pleasant at 4:45 p.m., and Tri County at 8:30 p.m. The following day, the competition continues with four more Michigan bands stepping up, including back-to-back state champions Walled Lake at 1:15 p.m., Rockford at 3 p.m., state champion Jenison at 4:30 p.m., and Plymouth-Canton at 6 p.m.
Adding to the excitement, the Michigan State University Spartan Marching Band will perform in exhibition at 8:45 p.m. Friday, delighting the audience with a medley of popular Broadway hits.
Marching bands from across various states, including Texas, Indiana, Oklahoma, Kentucky, Ohio, and Alaska will compete alongside Michigan’s ensembles. Judges will evaluate performances based on music quality, marching precision, visual storytelling, and additional artistic elements. Each band has dedicated months of hard work since early summer to perfect their 8 to 12-minute shows, incorporating intricate choreography, creative themes, elaborate props, and costume changes.
For those wishing to follow the action, a paid livestream of the Bands of America Grand Nationals competition is available. Pricing varies depending on the day and rounds, with options starting at $20 for preliminaries and $68 for access to all rounds of competition.
The event promises to be a thrilling display of talent and creativity, highlighting the dedication and hard work of high school marching bands from across the nation.