Missouri State University’s Pride Marching Band was named a top-10 marching band in the nation.  

Part of the USA Today Sports’ 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards for Best College Marching Band, the Pride Band finished No. 10 nationally after a public vote on a slate of programs selected by editors. 

The band joins a top-10 field that includes several of the largest marching bands in the country: Ohio University Marching 110; Western Carolina’s Pride of the Mountains; the University of Illinois Marching Illini; the Auburn University Marching Band; James Madison University’s Marching Royal Dukes; the University of Minnesota’s Pride of Minnesota Band; the Penn State Blue Band; Ohio State and Southern University. 

“This recognition belongs to our students, whose talent, discipline and energy make the Pride so special. And to the alumni, families, friends and fans who supported us throughout the voting process,” said Dr. Brad Snow, director of bands and associate professor of music. “To be recognized alongside so many outstanding collegiate bands is a tremendous honor and a meaningful reflection of the community that stands behind the Pride.”  

Marching strong 

Missouri State’s Pride Marching Band has built a national reputation over its history. Most recently, the band was selected to participate in the 2025 presidential inauguration parade in Washington, D.C. 

The 375-plus member group has marched in and performed at the: 

• Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, New York, in 1988, 1996 and 2001 
• Tournament of Roses Parade, Pasadena, California, in 1995 and 2008 
• Orange Bowl Parade, Miami, in 1988 
• London New Year’s Day Parade in 2005 
• NFL games for the New Orleans Saints, St. Louis Rams, Kansas City Chiefs and Denver Broncos 
• St. Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Central Hall, London 

“The Mo State Pride Marching Band is a legacy program that shapes our destination campus. Students from a wide range of academic majors attend Mo State because of high impact organizations like the Pride Band,” said Dr. Shawn Wahl, dean of the Reynolds College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities. “This recognition reflects the enthusiasm and passion of the entire Mo State community- past, current and future.  Year after year I am inspired by the dedication and relentless energy of our student members.”  

The Pride Marching Band is part of Missouri State’s broader band program, which also includes three concert bands, the University–Community Band and the Bear Mania athletic pep bands.