N.C. A&T’s Blue and Gold Marching Machine to Perform at 2024 Tournament of Roses Parade

EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (Sept. 19, 2023) – As one of the premier bands in the nation, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University’s Blue and Gold Marching Machine (BGMM) is synonymous with high-stepping performances, powerful, yet melodic sounds, and energy.

BGMM will take its talents and performance precision to the 135^th Tournament of Roses Parade on Jan. 1, 2024.

One of 20 exceptional bands selected to participate in the prestigious event, the BGMM was delivered the news direct from Tournament of Roses President Alex Aghajanian, stating the band’s selction was based on its “musicianship, showmanship and amazing talent.”

“This is a tremendous honor and opportunity for the band. Marching in the Tournament of Roses Parade will be great exposure for our students,” said Kenneth Ruff, Ed.D., director of bands. “Our students work very hard all year. They deserve this. I’m excited for them. My hope is that everyone will see that as well and choose to donate.”

The largest student organization on the A&T campus, fundraising efforts are already underway to prepare for the annual event in Pasadena, California, centered around the theme, “Celebrating a World of Music.”

Supporters can quickly and easily donate by texting BGMM to 41444 or visit http://ncat.edu/give and select University Marching Band. All donations will assist the band with complete travel expenses.

BGMM will join other bands hailing from diverse corners of the world, including Costa Rica, Japan and Sweden. The bands will travel to Pasadena to participate in the iconic parade, creating unforgettable memories as they march down Orange Grove and Colorado boulevards.

The Tournament of Roses Parade is expected to be viewed by 46 million people worldwide. The 2024 iteration is presented by Honda.

The band performs at a variety of school and community functions and consists of approximately 200 members from very diverse majors and concentrations. BGMM performs different genres of music and incorporates all styles of marching and maneuvering. The unit is a source of pride for the university and the community.