ACCORDING TO ESPN: Michigan Wolverines Marching Band Selected to Perform at Super Bowl Halftime—“The Showband of the Midwest” Heads to the Biggest Stage in Sports
In a moment of extraordinary pride for the University of Michigan and the world of collegiate music, ESPN reports that the Michigan Wolverines Marching Band, affectionately known as “The Showband of the Midwest,” has been officially selected to perform at the halftime show of the upcoming Super Bowl. This marks a historic occasion—not just for Michigan, but for all of college marching bands—as they become one of the rare university ensembles ever invited to grace the biggest entertainment stage in American sports.
The selection of the Michigan Marching Band is being celebrated nationwide as a tribute to tradition, excellence, and the enduring power of live music. With more than 400 student musicians, twirlers, and flag bearers, the Showband of the Midwest has long been known for its powerful sound, precision drills, and crowd-thrilling performances at football games in The Big House. Now, the band will take its talents from Ann Arbor to the world, performing before a global audience of more than 100 million viewers.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Dr. John Pasquale, Director of the Michigan Marching Band. “Our students have worked so hard to uphold a legacy of musical and marching excellence, and to now showcase that on the world’s biggest stage is truly beyond words.”
Founded in 1896, the Michigan Marching Band has built a reputation that spans well over a century. From performing during Rose Bowls and presidential inaugurations to winning national awards and appearing in documentaries, the band has always embodied the spirit of the University of Michigan: excellence, tradition, and leadership.
This Super Bowl performance is not only about music—it’s about visibility, legacy, and recognition for what marching bands bring to American culture. According to ESPN insiders, the decision to feature Michigan’s ensemble came after months of deliberation, with the NFL wanting to incorporate a fresh, authentic, and high-energy show that reflects the spirit of American football’s roots. The Wolverines were a natural choice.
The performance will reportedly include a medley of iconic American songs, Michigan fight classics like “The Victors,” and a visually spectacular marching routine, blending tradition with a modern twist. The band is also rumored to be collaborating with a surprise major recording artist, in a fusion of collegiate spirit and pop stardom that is expected to electrify the Super Bowl crowd.
Reactions across the Michigan community have been filled with excitement and pride. University President Santa Ono praised the announcement, saying, “This is not just a moment for Michigan—it’s a celebration of what education, art, and passion can create when they come together.”
Alumni, students, and fans are already planning to attend or tune in to the game with even more anticipation than usual. For the band members themselves, it’s a dream come true.
As the countdown to the Super Bowl begins, one thing is clear: when the lights shine brightest, the Michigan Marching Band will rise to the occasion—showing the world why they are truly The Showban
d of the Midwest.
