About the Marching FORCE
The Hampton University Band Program currently consists of the Marching Band, the Concert Band, the Symphonic Winds and the Basketball Band. Each of these organizations strive to provide a high level of musical experience for its members, and provides music for various University functions under the umbrella of the Department of Music.
The Hampton University Marching Band, “The Force”, is a grand example of the positive impact of music on student engagement and success. The Force provides experiences which assist students in their ability to assume responsibility, establish a professional attitude, gain self-confidence, develop a humanistic attitude toward life, become proficient in their area of musical specialization, appreciate diverse cultures, and contribute positively to the world around them.
The Force is most often found serving alongside the Hampton University football team on Saturday game days. Fan anticipation is reserved for half time and the battle that will ensue to determine the musical champion of the day. It is a sight to behold and an adventure within itself. The cadence of the Drum Majors leading the march of musicians on a mission to perform at their best and make the audience feel their drive in the depths of their chest along with the beat of the S.T.I.C.K.Y. Situation drum line. The Ebony Fire dance team and S.I.L.K.Y. flag line sway in rhythmic unison, while the crowd watches in awe, mesmerized. They execute so precisely and so effortlessly, that the audience never fully understands the extreme dedication and hard work that goes into making each performance an exquisite experience for the senses of sight and sound.
1936
Hampton Band wins “Best Band Award” at Sesquicentennial celebration parade Lynchburg, VA.
1988
Band performs for the Arizona Cardinals (formally Phoenix)
1996
Hampton’s band performs with Montell Jordan in Indianapolis against FAMU.
1999
Hampton’s band performs halftime for the New York JetsHampton’s band featured on television at halftime for Circle City Classic in Indianapolis.Hampton’s band performed in First “Battle of the Bay Bands against NSU”Hampton’s band featured on television during heritage bowl performance.
2001
First organization to perform at Giants Stadium 11 days after the terrorism events of 9/11 in concert with VSU
2003
Band is featured on BET while performing in the New York Urban League Classic at Giants Stadium
2003
Band performs with Hip Hop Recording Artist “Chingy” during Halftime of the Cleveland Classic
2005
Band is featured on BET while performing in the Ford Labor Day Classic at Ford Field in Detroit
2006
Band performs with Recording Artist “Young Dro” during Halftime of the MEAC/SWAC challenge in Birmingham, Alabama
2009
Band performs in the Presidential Inauguration Parade of the 44th President of the US, President Barack Obama
2016
Band travels to Honduras to conduct an International Music Camp
2018
Band selected to first-ever appearance at the Honda Battle of the Bands
2019
Drumline members selected to participate in the 2019 Tournament of Roses Parade
2020
Band selected to first-ever appearance of an HBCU band in the New Year’s Day Parade and Celebration in Rome, ItalyBand selected to first-ever appearance in the 2020 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade