Welcome to the online home of the Norfolk State University Spartan "Legion" Band!
Founded in 1975 The award winning Norfolk State University Spartan “Legion” Marching Band located in Norfolk, VA, has made a name for itself as one of the premier Marching Bands in the country. The “Legion” consists of 250 staff and student musicians, dancers, and flags from states nationwide, including, the Virgin Islands and the Bahamas. The “Legion” exhibits a presence evocative of the storied “Spartans”. They are regally attired in forest green uniforms with contrasting white overlays, gold capes and brilliant gold-plated helmets. Their varied synchronized and precise marching styles, inclusive of their fierce look and demeanor, include high-stepping, the rigid strut and the glide or military style. Their utter presence embraces and exudes pride, which is coupled with their robust and magnificent sound. They have been consistently critically acclaimed and have drawn rave reviews nationwide in all media.Discipline and “Spartan-like” behavior is the key to the innumerable honors that the Spartan “Legion” has won. Selected performances include, most recently the Barack Obama Presidential campaign rally in Norfolk, VA. The “Legion’s” history includes: the Philadelphia Parade commemorating the 200th anniversary of the Constitution (1987), the Mardi Gras in the Rex Parade in New Orleans, LA (2003); the MLK “Drum Major for Justice” Parade, St. Petersburg, FL (2006); the Honda Battle of the Bands Invitational Showcase (2007 and 2008); the Norfolk Grand Illumination Parade (2006 and 2007); collegiate venues in the MEAC, CIAA and Colonial Conferences, Rutgers University, University of Kentucky and Villanova University. The “Legion” is also the inaugural host of the HBCU (History Black Colleges and Universities) Band Battlefest, which annually spotlights 10 HBCU Marching Bands and command performances in San Diego, CA; Bermuda and New York, NY.
Under the direction of Mr. William Beathea, The Spartan "Legion" continues to grow a stronger fan base, better program, and a stronger musical tradition with the thought of spreading love for the “Legion” across the country.