The Showcase of Southeast Texas

After a twenty year hiatus, marching band returned to Lamar University in 2010. The band, formerly known as "The Grandest Band in the Land," was given a new name, "The Showcase of Southeast Texas."

Directed by Dr. Eric Shannon, the LU Marching Band performs for thousands of fans and alumni each year at all home football games and select away game, as well as major exhibitions. The band primarily marches contemporary corps style, but does incorporate elements from the military tradition.

The Showcase of Southeast Texas is open to all Lamar University students, full time, part time, and non-degree seeking. It is comprised of music majors and non-music majors alike. In fact, there are more than 44 majors or specific fields of study represented in the band, which is made up of students from over 70 high schools nationwide.

First-year woodwind and brass members receive a $550 scholarship at the completion of their first season. That amount increases incrementally the longer a student participates in the band. Color Guard and Drumline earn a minimum of $1000 for the semester, but must attend an additional two hour rehearsal once per week.

Fall Rehearsal Schedule:

Tues./Thurs. 1:30pm–3:25pm
Fridays 1:50pm–3:10pm
Drumline and Color Guard have required sectionals on Tuesdays from 6:00pm–8:00pm

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Related Forms

JOIN THE 2025 LU MARCHING BAND:

COMPLETE YOUR 2025 COMMITMENT FORM

Color Guard and Drumline have audition requirements. See below for details.

Cardinal Color Guard

The Color Guard is an integral part of The Showcase of Southeast Texas that enhance the band's performances with color and visual excitement. The squad is comprised of individuals who love to dance and spin with a combination of poised body movements and precisely executed equipment routines.

Color Guard members are selected through competitive audition. All members receive at least a $1000 scholarship at the completion of the season, however, one extra practice per week is required. Section Leaders receive a higher amount.

Color Guard Director: Alicia Stewart

LU Cardinalette

Kristin Hebert 2021 Cardinalette

The Showcase now features a highly exclusive role of "Feature Twirler." The feature twirler is also known as our "Cardinalette." She is responsible for providing the Showcase with a dynamic visual flair and being a first-class ambassador for the University.

At this time, our Cardinalette is Kristin Hebert, a Nederland native, graduate of the TALH program, and Presidential Scholar. Auditions for Feature Twirler will not open again until the current Cardinalette graduates or steps down. Inquiries about Twirling at LU can be made to Lauren Stepan (contact info below).

Cardinalette Twirling Coach: Lauren Stepan

LU Drumline and Front Ensemble

Past winners of the PASIC Drumline standstill division, Lamar University boasts an outstanding collegiate drumline and front ensemble. Consisting of enthusiastic and hardworking students, these sections are an integral part of the LU Marching Band.

All drumline and front ensemble members receive at least a $1000 scholarship at the completion of the season, however, they must attend an additional two hour sectional rehearsal each week. Section Leaders receive a higher amount. Participation in the Showcase is generally guaranteed simply by filling out the commitment form, but priority placement on your preferred instrument is earned by audition at the August Mini-Camp (Three days before the Full Band Camp).

Click Here for 2024 Audition Information

Director of Percussion: Dr. Reese Maultsby