Howard University’s marching band has taken part in presidential inaugurations before. But during today’s inaugural parade, they’ll be escorting one of their own.
The renowned Showtime Marching Band will accompany Vice President Kamala Harris — an alumna of Howard University herself — to the White House shortly after she takes her oath of office, along with President Joe Biden.
“Throughout her career, the vice president-elect has carried her Howard education with her, ensuring that she adhere to truth and service and inspiring her to achieve unprecedented levels of excellence,” said Howard University President Wayne A. I. Frederick in a statement.
“It is perfectly fitting that the Showtime Marching Band, the ensemble that captures and reverberates the heartbeat of our institution, should accompany her on this last leg of her journey to the White House.”
The band will perform a special drum cadence, and will be represented by members of the drumline, the Flashy Flag Squad and Ooh La La dancers, de acuerdo a un news release from Howard University. Because of the coronavirus pandemic, less than a third of the full band will be in attendance.
“We are proud to unite safely as a band to represent Howard University, Vice President-elect Kamala Harris and all HBCUs across the country,” Kelvin Washington, the Howard University band director, dijo en un comunicado. “It’s a very gracious opportunity for us, and we’re very thankful for it.”
Several HBCUs, including Howard,also participated in a Battle of the Bands during an inaugural event on Tuesday.
Harris will be the nation’s first female, first Black and first South Asian vice president. She will also be the first graduate of a historically Black college or university, a badge she’s worn with pride.
“It was that steady pulse of her Alma Mater’s legacy that propelled her forward, and it is that same rhythm that will carry her onward as she undoubtedly will become one of the most influential vice presidents in the history of our nation,” Frederick said.
The drumline of the University of Delaware, Biden’s alma mater, will also perform at the inauguration.
