UNC marching band Squad has been crowned the best collegiate marching band of the year in the history….

UNC marching band Squad has been crowned the best collegiate marching band of the year in the history….

In a historic moment for college music programs across the country, the University of North Carolina (UNC) Marching Band Squad has been crowned the best collegiate marching band of the year. This isn’t just another award — it marks a pinnacle achievement in the band’s long and proud history, placing it firmly in the national spotlight and setting a new standard for excellence in performance, precision, and spirit.

Often referred to as the “Pride of the ACC,” the UNC Marching Tar Heels have always been known for their dedication to musical excellence, school pride, and innovative halftime performances. But this year, the band truly outdid itself. From flawlessly choreographed field shows to emotionally stirring renditions of classic and contemporary pieces, the band captivated audiences at every game and competition. Judges and fans alike praised their musicality, visual impact, and overall energy — and it was that consistent excellence that ultimately led to this crowning moment.

The 2024–2025 season saw the band take bold creative steps under the leadership of their director, Dr. Jeffrey Fuchs, and assistant directors known for blending tradition with cutting-edge show design. From tributes to Southern soul and Motown to breathtaking visual displays honoring Black history and Tar Heel legacy, every performance was both a celebration and a storytelling experience. The routines were not only musically complex but visually stunning — utilizing crisp formations, dynamic flag corps elements, and intricate marching patterns that seemed to dance across the field.

But what set the UNC Marching Band apart this year wasn’t just skill — it was heart. This was a squad that showed up with passion and left everything on the field. Whether performing in 90-degree heat at Kenan Memorial Stadium or traveling to away games and national exhibitions, their enthusiasm never wavered. That spirit infected fans, alumni, and even rivals, who couldn’t help but be impressed by the unity, discipline, and joy the band brought to every performance.

Behind the scenes, countless hours of practice, teamwork, and sacrifice made this achievement possible. The band is more than 300 students strong, representing a wide range of majors and backgrounds. These are not music majors alone — they’re future doctors, engineers, teachers, and entrepreneurs, all coming together to create something bigger than themselves. The camaraderie within the squad is often described as family-like, a bond that has only deepened with this historic win.

This honor not only recognizes their achievement this season but also cements their place in collegiate marching band history. UNC’s band joins the elite ranks of top-tier university bands who have defined what it means to perform at the highest level. It’s a legacy that future Tar Heels will strive to uphold and build upon.

As they march forward into future seasons, the UNC Marching Band carries the pride of this victory and the promise of continued excellence. For now, they can enjoy a well-earned moment in the spotlight — champions not just of sound and step, but of school spirit, creativity, and resilience.