He and the Marching “100” pioneered a new style that entertained audiences with high-stepping, horn-swinging showmanship infused with Black culture and Black excellence. Foster developed the Marching “100” into one of the premier marching bands in the country. More of an aspirational name at the time (with only 16 original members), Dr. However, the Marching “100” marks the beginning of the modern HBCU marching band. Other schools had military-style field bands prior to the Marching “100” - Tuskegee Institute, for example, had field bands dating back to its time under Booker T. The band was founded by the school's fourth band director, Dr. The modern HBCU marching band style dates back to June 1, 1946, with the creation of the Marching “100” at Florida A&M College (FAMU). Bands are central to the HBCU experience and serve as vital cultural features of HBCU life. HBCU marching bands are often the center of culture on campus and act as important ambassadors for their university off campus.
Marching bands are one of the most recognizable and celebrated organizations at many historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). The Public Ivies, Little Ivies, and Other Ivy League Equivalents.
