There have been some impressive tributes to the 50th anniversary of the moon landing, but the Ohio State Marching band just took things to a new level. In less than 10 minutes, they created an unforgettable timeline of the Space Race. Marching with precision, they gave an incredible history lesson to everyone sitting in the stands of the Ohio State football game against Michigan State.
From forming iconic phrases like “small step” and “giant leap” to literally transforming into a man on the moon, they proved why they're called The Best Damn Band in the Land. With over 225 members, the Ohio state Marching Band is one of the few all-brass and percussion bands in the country. Each halftime show features 195 performers, with the band putting on a show during Ohio State football games and other events throughout the fall season.
The band itself dates back to 1878 when they played music for cadets performing military drills. Its association with military exercises lasted until the 1950s when it cut ties with the ROTC. From there, they began to expand into new musical genres and have become known for their elaborate halftime performances.
This particular space-themed performance was highly appropriate. Not only is it the golden anniversary of the moon landing, but Neil Armstrong is actually from Ohio. To help celebrate this hometown hero, the band played selections from space movies like Apollo 13 and The Right Stuff, before finishing off the performance with Stars and Stripes Forever as fireworks exploded. Check out their full patriotic performance in real time below, as well as some their other incredible halftime shows.
The Ohio State Marching Band gives a history lesson about the Space Race in their latest halftime show.
Watch some other iconic halftime performances by what's called “The Best Damn Band in the Land.”
h/t: [The Spun]
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