July 6, 2026
Contact: Janese Heavin, heavinj@missouri.edu
Photos by Sam Mohler, Kolden Lam, Madeleine Cerneka and Karissa Simmons
Marching Mizzou recently took center stage in London, opening the prestigious London Band Week festival and reinforcing the University of Missouri’s reputation as having one of the world’s premier collegiate marching bands.
Over four performances, Marching Mizzou showcased its excellence before international audiences and won the King’s Shield Award after advancing to the final round of Drumline London, a knockout-style tournament. Another highlight was serving as the grand finale of the Palace Parade Review down The Mall toward Buckingham Palace as part of National Marching Music Day in the United Kingdom. The iconic route has hosted kings, queens and other dignitaries, placing Mizzou Tigers in the heart of one of the world’s most celebrated ceremonial settings.
The performances brought to life Marching Mizzou’s themed production, “From the Columns to the Crown,” a tribute connecting university traditions with the rich musical and ceremonial heritage of Great Britain.
Band members traveled to London as part of a study abroad experience that included performances at the prestigious London Tattoo at the London ExCeL and at the Band Week’s closing parade in St. James’s Park.
The international appearance also carried special significance, coinciding with America’s 250th anniversary and Marching Mizzou’s first trip to London since 1975. Adding to the celebration, Mizzou alumni were on hand to welcome the band, reflecting the university’s worldwide network of alumni and the success of Tigers across the U.K. and beyond.
“We were thrilled to represent Mizzou on a global stage,” Amy M. Knopps, director of Marching Mizzou, said. “These performances showcased not only the remarkable talent of our students but also the impact of the educational experiences that prepare them to lead and excel anywhere in the world.”
Scroll on to see more Marching Mizzou photos from London Band Week.
Tower Bridge performance
London Tattoo performance
Parade on The Mall
Drumline Battle
