The Pride of the Dakotas

Pride Photos

"The Pride" is the most visible band at SDSU. In addition to performances during the pregame and halftime activities of all home Jackrabbit football games, the Pride has toured the Upper Midwest extensively with shows at the Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers and Winnipeg Blue Bombers football games and several guest performances at high school marching competitions, including the Tri-State competition in Luverne, Minnesota and the Festival of Bands in Sioux Falls, SD.

The Pride marched in the 1981 and 1997 Presidential Inaugural Parades in Washington, D.C. and at the National Independence Day Parade in Washington D.C. in July, 2000. In addition, the Pride was featured in the PBS Production of “A Capitol Fourth.” The Pride also marched in the 2003 and 2008 Tournament of Roses Parade. This year the Pride will perform at all home football games, and will present their biennial Indoor Concert.

With nearly 400 members, the Pride is open to all SDSU students and credit for the course may be applied to the required University core of humanities. Although every student who wishes to be part of the band may participate, auditions are required for the drumline, the Dakota Blue color guard, and the drum major positions. In addition, new students are auditioned for part placement. Rehearsals begin on the first day of classes in the fall and are held daily (Monday-Friday) throughout the marching season.

The Pride of the Dakotas has developed a rich tradition of excellence in performance as well as becoming one of the largest "family" organizations on campus. Throughout the years, members of the Pride have forged friendships and memories that have lasted a lifetime.

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Directed by: Mr. James McKinney
If you have any questions or need to get in touch with us, contact us at the numbers/addresses below. See you in August!

Mr. McKinney: (605) 688–4029
James.McKinney@sdstate.edu

Dr. Eric Peterson: (605) 688–4029
Eric.Peterson@sdstate.edu

Mr. Coull: (605) 688–5940
James.Coull@sdstate.edu

Dr. Taylor: (605) 688–5221
Alan.Taylor@sdstate.edu

Mr. Ragsdale: (605) 688–5534
Aaron.Ragsdale@sdstate.edu