The past year has brought one success after another for the N.C. Central University Marching Sound Machine.
Last November, the band received an invitation to the Rose Parade in Pasadena, Calif., and in January, it performed for the sixth consecutive year at the Honda Battle of the Bands in Atlanta.
The newest honor is an invitation to the Sprite Queen City Battle of the Bands in Charlotte, Aug. 28, at Charlotte Memorial Stadium at 7 p.m.
With a unique sound that incorporates drum corps techniques, a pit percussion section and a large dance and equipment auxiliary, the 224-member band is one of the largest units on the NCCU campus.
But perhaps what sets the band apart is the vision and leadership of band director Jorim Reid and his commitment to musicianship, observers say.
“It’s all about their skill as musicians,†said Reid. “We don’t want to blast our audience but rather, engage them with a high quality listening experience.â€
The Marching Sound Machine and five other marching bands from historically black colleges and universities will compete for more than $60,000 in scholarships. The other competitors will be bands from Florida A&M University, Johnson C. Smith University, North Carolina A&T State University, Shaw University and South Carolina State University. High school drumlines from West Charlotte High and Harding University High will also perform.
Tickets for the Sprite Queen City Battle of the Bands can be purchased for $15 in advance at www.ez-tix.com and for $20 the day of the event at the stadium box office. For the latest information on the Sprite Queen City Battle of the Bands, visit www.queencitybattleofthebands.com
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