A Historically Black College and University marching band (also known as a HBCU band) is the marching band sponsored by a historically black college or university. A distinctive "HBCU-style" of marching band originated in the American South in the 1940s through the blending of earlier traditions of military music and minstrel shows with a performance repertoire based on popular song.[citation needed]
HBCU bands have traditionally played a major role in fostering school pride and camaraderie. Different studies have linked HBCU band membership with both higher and lower rates of academic achievement versus the at-large student population.[citation needed] Among the predominantly male, African-American membership of the ensembles, they have been theorized to support positive identity formation. [1][2][3]
- ^ "Tradition on the Move, HBCU Bands Tell the Story". 6 February 2021.
- ^ "The Hampton University Marching Force is Parading Through New York City". Forbes.
- ^ "The Significance of HBCU Bands". 11 November 2011.