The University of Massachusetts Minuteman Marching Band is the official marching band of the University of Massachusetts, or simply UMass, located in Amherst, Massachusetts. The Minuteman Marching Band performs at every UMass Minutemen home football game, as well as taking part in many campus activities and local parades, such as America's Hometown Thanksgiving Parade in Plymouth, Massachusetts. They have also marched in the 2018 Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California.
The Minuteman Marching Band, also referred to by their nickname, "The Power and Class of New England", is known across the nation for its drum corps-inspired performances and musical selections. They are also known for their nationally-renowned percussion section and their use of instrument soloists, vocalists, dance routines, electronics and their overall showmanship.
History with the Macy's Parade[]
Macy's representative Jim Maher, manager of the Macy's store in Holyoke; Minuteman Marching Band Director Tim Anderson; and UMass Amherst Chancellor Javier Reyes, holding the Macy's drumhead and check form Macy's for the band, on the field at McGuirk Stadium
The Minuteman Marching Band debuted in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2013, performing their percussion feature "Big Noise From Winnetka" at Herald's Square. At the UMass vs. Toledo football game on October 7, 2023, during a 150th Anniversary of the band presentation at halftime, it was announced to the band members that they would be returning to Macy's in 2024. They were additionally presented with a $10,000 check from the local Macy's storefront to begin fundraising.