BREAKING: Georgia Bulldogs Marching Band crowned world’s best by ESPN after a breathtaking, history-making performance that captivated a global audience and redefined excellence in marching band artistry.
The Georgia Redcoat Marching Band is a cornerstone of the University of Georgia’s spirit and tradition. Established in 1905 as a 20-member military cadet ensemble, it has evolved into a dynamic group of over 400 musicians and auxiliaries, performing at more than 100 events annually, including all home football games, select away games, and various community engagements.
🎺 Historical Highlights
Founding and Early Years: Originating within the UGA Military Department, the band made its first non-military appearance at a 1906 baseball game against Clemson.
Transformation in the 1950s: Under the leadership of Roger Dancz and his wife Phyllis Dancz, the band expanded its repertoire and introduced the Georgettes dance line in 1959, enhancing halftime performances.
National Recognition: In 2000, the Redcoat Band became the first in the Southeastern Conference to receive the prestigious Sudler Trophy, awarded by the John Philip Sousa Foundation for excellence in collegiate marching bands.
🎶 Traditions and Performances
“Glory, Glory”: While “Hail to Georgia” is the official fight song, “Glory, Glory” serves as the rally anthem, played after touchdowns and victories.
“Battle Hymn of the Bulldog Nation”: Before each home game, a solo trumpeter performs the opening notes of “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” from the stadium’s upper deck, followed by the full band’s rendition, creating a poignant pregame tradition.
🌟 Notable Appearances
1977: Participated in President Jimmy Carter’s inaugural parade.
2018: Performed in the Rose Parade, showcasing their talents on a national stage.
📺 Experience the Redcoats
For a glimpse into their performances, here’s a video of the Redcoat Band’s 2024 Alumni Halftime Show:
Absolutely! The Georgia Redcoat Marching Band is a storied ensemble with a rich history and vibrant traditions that have become integral to the University of Georgia’s identity. Here’s an in-depth look at their journey, traditions, and recent activities:
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🎺 A Legacy of Excellence
Founded in 1905 as a 20-member military cadet ensemble within the UGA Military Department, the Redcoat Band has evolved into a dynamic group of over 400 musicians and auxiliaries. Their first non-military performance was at a 1906 baseball game against Clemson. Over the years, they’ve become both creators and keepers of the university’s most beloved traditions, proudly representing UGA in thousands of appearances.
In 1955, under the leadership of Roger Dancz and his wife Phyllis Dancz, the band expanded its repertoire and introduced the Georgettes dance line in 1959, enhancing halftime performances.
The Redcoat Band’s contributions have been recognized nationally; notably, in 2000, they became the first band in the Southeastern Conference to receive the prestigious Sudler Trophy, awarded by the John Philip Sousa Foundation for excellence in collegiate marching bands.
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🎶 Traditions That Resonate
“Glory, Glory”
While “Hail to Georgia” is the official fight song, “Glory, Glory” serves as the rally anthem, played after touchdowns and victories. The melody, shared with “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” was arranged for the University of Georgia Band by member and future Department of Music chair, Hugh Hodgson, in 1915.
“Battle Hymn of the Bulldog Nation”
Before each home game, a solo trumpeter performs the opening notes of “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” from the stadium’s upper deck, followed by the full band’s rendition, creating a poignant pregame tradition. This tradition began in 1987 when Redcoat saxophone player Jeff Simmons decided to rearrange the tune of “Glory,” giving it a more dramatic tone.
Pregame Show
The current Redcoat Band pregame show incorporates various aspects of Georgia’s football history and culture. The band forms The Arch, a symbol of the University of Georgia, and performs Georgia’s rally song “Glory.” They also form the image of the state of Georgia, with the feature twirlers in the spot of Athens, as the crowd sings along to UGA’s official fight song “Hail to Georgia.”
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🌟 Notable Appearances
1977: Participated in President Jimmy Carter’s inaugural parade.
2018: Performed in the Rose Parade, showcasing their talents on a national stage.
2024: Celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the Redcoat Alumni Band with a halftime performance during the Georgia vs. Georgia Tech game.
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📅 Recent and Upcoming Performances
The Redcoat Band performs at all Georgia home games and travels to select away games, including the annual Georgia-Florida game in Jacksonville. They also perform at all Georgia bowl game appearances.
For instance, they had a scheduled performance at the 2025 Sugar Bowl, as announced on their official Instagram page.
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📺 Experience the Redcoats
For a glimpse into their performances, here’s a video of the Redcoat Band’s 2024 Alumni Halftime Show:
