MSU Marching Band Breaks Barriers: Historic Moves, Record Season, and Netflix Documentary Highlight Rise in Female Leadership
East Lansing, MI — May 3, 2025
The Michigan State University Spartan Marching Band (SMB) is making headlines with a season marked by historic breakthroughs, record-setting accomplishments, and a growing national spotlight. With a renewed focus on diversity, innovation, and performance excellence, the SMB has redefined what it means to be a collegiate marching band in the 21st century.
Breaking Records and Raising the Bar
The 2024-2025 season saw the Spartan Marching Band deliver one of its most memorable and ambitious performances yet. From the electrifying halftime show during the MSU Football Spring Showcase to standout community events, the band’s musical and visual productions reached new heights. One of the spring highlights included an eclectic medley of classic hits by artists like Elton John and Fall Out Boy, blending tradition with modern flair to engage both younger audiences and longtime fans.
The performance not only energized the Spartan Stadium crowd, but also attracted a record number of potential recruits—over 200 high school students from across the country. This surge in interest reflects the band’s growing influence and reputation for musical excellence and inclusive culture.
Additionally, the MSU Board of Trustees made a historic move by approving a $330,000 endowment for the Spartan Marching Band. This funding ensures continued support for instruments, travel, and uniforms—crucial for maintaining the band’s world-class quality and creating new opportunities for members.
Women Leading the Way
One of the most remarkable developments this season has been the unprecedented rise in female leadership within the SMB. Co-drum majors Lacy Jewell and Samantha Barringer have become symbols of this progress, breaking barriers in a role traditionally held by men. Their leadership, talent, and presence have reshaped the band’s identity and empowered younger members to embrace leadership roles, regardless of gender.
Associate Director Arris Golden has also played a key role in fostering a more inclusive culture. A prominent educator and mentor in the field of music education, Golden emphasized the importance of giving all students the tools and encouragement they need to lead.
“Our goal is to make sure every member feels seen, heard, and empowered,” said Golden. “We are building a culture that reflects the diverse future of music and leadership.”
Netflix Shines a Spotlight on the SMB
This groundbreaking season caught the attention of Netflix producers, leading to the creation of a documentary chronicling the band’s journey. Though the official release date is still under wraps, the documentary is expected to offer behind-the-scenes access to rehearsals, game-day performances, and personal stories of band members and directors. It will also highlight the unique challenges faced by the drum majors and the significance of this historic year.
The project is being compared to Netflix’s earlier series Marching Orders, which followed the intense lives of members of the Bethune–Cookman University marching band. However, the MSU documentary will focus more deeply on themes of leadership, innovation, and resilience within the Big Ten environment.
Honoring History, Embracing the Future
Beyond the field, the Spartan Marching Band continues to make an impact through outreach and education. A recent exhibition at the MSU Museum, titled Marking Time: A Year of Spartan Marching Band Traditions, invited the public to explore the rich history and evolving role of the SMB. Curated by students and alumni, the exhibit featured photos, uniforms, and interviews that documented the band’s journey from 1870 to today.
With more than 150 years of tradition, the SMB is not just surviving but thriving—thanks to a new generation of leaders, institutional support, and an evolving mission that values inclusivity, creativity, and community.
As the band prepares for future seasons, its leadership remains focused on sustaining its momentum and continuing to raise the standard for college marching bands across the country.
“This is just the beginning,” said Jewell. “We’re showing the world what a modern marching band can look like.”