Miles College marching band named ESPN Band of the Year

The Miles College marching band, known as the Purple Marching Machine, has been named the Division II Band of the Year by ESPN.

Miles won the title over Virginia State at the Band of the Year competition in Atlanta on Friday, December 13 and will receive a prize of $75,000, which will go towards uniforms and balances for band members.

“The Purple Marching Machine continues to make us proud, demonstrating the excellence and dedication that define Miles College. Their performance this evening was nothing short of spectacular. Under the tireless leadership of our incredible band director, Willie J. Snipes, Jr., our students rose to the challenge, returning from holiday break and putting in the hard work necessary to earn the title of ESPN Division II Band of the Year. As the largest organization on our campus, the Purple Marching Machine has once again proven their impact goes far beyond the field.

This accomplishment is a testament to the talent, commitment, and resilience of our students, guided by a director who ensures they have every opportunity to shine.

– Bobbie Knight, President, Miles College

Miles College shared a video of the Purple Marching Machine in action at the competition.

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