"All-American"
Marching
Band

 

 

AAMB History | Auxiliaries | Drum Majors | Big Bass Drum | "I am an American"

The roots of the Purdue “All-American” Marching Band, one of the finest marching bands in the nation, go back to 1886 on the West Lafayette campus. From the beginning the band has been known for its tradition of innovation and high visibility.

Employing an electric approach to drill and show design, no two of the band’s halftime shows are ever alike. Music runs the gamut from standard marches to show tunes and from rock to jazz, and the “All-American” band has become known for its use of creative musical arrangements from the pens of an impressive stable of writers as well as its intriguing drill designs.

A long list of Purdue firsts ranges from the first band to break ranks and form a letter on the football field (the Block P in 1907) to the first band to place a bandsman on the moon (Neil Armstrong in 1969). The band is also known for its Big Bass Drum, which stands over 10 feet high on its carriage, and its internationally famous solo twirler, the “Golden Girl.”

In 2008 it became the first American marching band invited by the Ministry of Culture to perform in Beijing China. In 2010 was the first Big Ten band to perform in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Members of the “All-American” Band perform at all Purdue home football games as well as selected away games and bowl appearances. Each spring since 1919 it has been the host band of the Indianapolis 500, performing in the 500 Festival Parade and for the race’s opening ceremonies.

Membership in marching band is based on auditions. A mandatory band camp is held the week before classes start each fall. Students earn two hours of academic credit in the fall semester for their participation.

Interested in joining the "All-American" Marching Band?

Click here for audition information