NC A&T BGMM Performs At 135th Rose Parade

Written by Quintessa Williams

Alright now, Aggie Pride! NC A&T‘s BGMM, one of the premier HBCU bands in the nation, performed at 135th Tournament of Roses Parade this New Years.

BGMM was one of 20 exceptional bands selected to participate in the event, one that T.O.R. President, Alex Aghajanian says was based on the band’s “musicianship, showmanship and amazing talent.”

The marching band opened the performance with their rendition of “I Love Music” by O’Jays. “Boy that North Carolina A&T Band, that HBCU, they really brought it,” said reporter Chris Schauble from KTLA 5 Morning News.

The BGMM has been historically recognized as synonymous with high-stepping performances, powerful, yet melodic sounds, and energy. This exceptional standard aligns with this year’s Rose Bowl Parade’s theme, “Celebrating a World of Music.”

“We thrive on wanting to entertain, so I want [the crowd] to be entertained,” said Dr. Kenneth Ruff, BGMM Band Director during rehearsal. “We want to provide them with the opportunity to experience the show. Not just see it or hear it, but for it to connect. I just want them to be a part of the experience.”

The NC A&T performance comes after winning the 2023 ESPN Division I HBCU Band of the Year Award. BGMM competed against Jackson State University December 16th at the Mercedes-Benz Dome in Atlanta for the win.  The BGMM, established since 1918, consists of about 200 students, making it the largest student organization on the A&T campus. BGMM performs different genres of music, incorporating all styles of marching and maneuvering, at a variety of school and community functions throughout the year.