From BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY
The Bowling Green State University Falcon Marching band has grown to a record 600 members, becoming the largest collegiate marching band in America and the largest in BGSU history.
This marks the fifth consecutive year of growth for the band.
The BGSU Falcon Marching Band continues to earn invitations to some of the most prestigious performances for marching bands nationally and internationally, including the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland, and the upcoming 2027 Rose Parade in Pasadena, California.
For the 2026-27 season, the band added more than 120 students over last year and has grown more than sixfold since 2022, when it had just 90 members.
“Reaching a record 600 members is an exciting milestone, but what makes it truly special is what it represents,” said Jon Waters, director of marching and athletic bands and assistant teaching professor. “The continued growth speaks to the incredible student experience at Bowling Green and the pride students have in being part of something with such a rich tradition. Every performance is powered by students who are passionate about this university, and we’re excited to showcase that passion in an even bigger way this season.”
As membership has grown, Waters has elevated the band’s sense of community, helping to ensure students have opportunities to develop leadership skills, collaborate with peers, and build lasting connections.
More than 80% of the band’s members remain non-music majors, reflecting enthusiasm for the Falcon Marching band across the university and the value students place on extracurricular involvement as part of their college experience.
To help ensure students continue receiving a personalized experience, Waters established a network of section leaders – often third or fourth-year students who mentor younger members, build community within their sections, and help new students transition to college life while developing their own leadership skills.
Support and enthusiasm for the BGSU Falcon Marching Band extends beyond campus into the greater community, with fans turning out in large numbers to watch their performances during football games, parades, and community events.
That support also helped fund an upgrade to the band’s outdoor practice field through contributions from alumni donors. In 2025, the university debuted The Student Green, a new turf practice field east of Perry Field House that provides the record-breaking band with a spacious, well-lit space for practice.
Recognized as one of the nation’s standout college bands, the BGSU Falcon Marching Band continues to make history.
The Falcon Marching Band’s first football game performance will be on Saturday, Sept. 5, as BGSU takes on Tarleton State at Doyt L. Perry Stadium. The band will also perform during this fall’s Rally BG on Main event, BGSU Homecoming celebration, and the Bowling Green Community Holiday Parade.
