GREENSBORO, N.C. — North Carolina A&T State University's marching band was named the 2023 HBCU band of the year.
On Dec. 15, the Blue and Gold Marching Machine (BGMM) band director Kenneth Ruff, Ed. D. led the band to victory at the Mercedes-Benz Dome in Atlanta, where they claimed the Divison I title.
Two days later, the band was scheduled to perform in Charlotte during the Carolina Panthers halftime game against the Atlanta Falcons but did not due to the weather.
BGMM was ranked throughout the season based on the following:
- Musicianship
- Accuracy
- Drumline
- Drum majors
- Dance corps
- Other relevant criteria
BGMM is the largest student organization at NC A&T where nearly 200 students from various majors and concentrations come together to perform different genres of music, incorporating all styles of marching and maneuvering throughout the campus and community.
On Jan. 1, 2024, BGMM and 19 bands from around the world will perform at the 135th Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California.
Forty-six million people worldwide are expected to watch the bands march five miles down Orange Grove and Colorado boulevards for the iconic event.
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