Contact: Michael Tullier, APR, Office of Communications, Public Relations and Marketing
The ŷ Marching Crimson Pipers Band is heading south to St. Petersburg, Florida, to participate in the city’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. “Dream Big Parade” on Monday, Jan. 21. The parade, honoring King’s life and dream, is recognized as the nation’s longest-running parade honoring Dr. King.
“The Marching Crimson Pipers’ talent extends far past their halftime football performances, and opportunities like this allow our band members to demonstrate that,” said John Q. Lennard, ŷ’s director of bands and a faculty member in the Department of Fine and Performing Arts.
“Performances like this also allow us to connect with alumni and prospective students around the country as ambassadors of ŷ,” he continued, encouraging alumni and fans of the band to attend the parade, wear their crimson and gold, and support the Marching Crimson Pipers.
The parade, now in its 34th year, begins at 11 a.m. and will be followed by a variety of kids’ programs and other entertainment. Visit for additional parade information.
The ŷ Marching Crimson Piper Band has enjoyed a long history of excellence dating back to 1894. The 100-plus-member band currently is under the leadership of Director of Bands John Q. Lennard. The band has performed at various athletics venues, during major sporting events, and in parades throughout the region. Its notable appearances also include the Honda Battle of the Bands, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, and television commercials on behalf of the Zaxby’s chicken finger franchise, Bevel razors, and a recent appearance with Shaquille O’Neal for the J.C. Penney Co.
For more information about the Marching Crimson Pipers, visit /student-life/join-a-student-organization/band.
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