About The Marching Pride of South Carolina

The Marching Pride was formed in late 2003 in order to add color and music to the annual South Carolina Gay and Lesbian Pride March and Festival in Columbia. Our first public event was to play in the 2004 SC Pride March in May, which was followed up by the North Carolina Pride Parade and Festival in October 2004. In 2005 we will perform at SC Pride, Atlanta Pride and NC Pride. In all of our events, thus far, we have played with the North Carolina Pride Marching Band and/or the the Atlanta Freedom Marching Band. We are grateful for the encouragement and support that our two neighboring bands have provided to us.

The Marching Pride is looking forward to performing with the entire Lesbian and Gay Band Association at Gay Games VII in Chicago. The band is accepting donations to help defray the costs associated with this trip and to be able to take as many people as possible to Chicago.

How good do I have to be in order to play?  The Marching Pride accepts musicians of all talent levels. Most of us have not played since high school - or earlier - and our skills are rusty. The Marching Pride exists solely to have fun and add entertainment to community events. We are happy to include members from beginners to experts. No one will be turned away or limited because of ability.

Does the Marching Pride have a color guard also?  Yes, we also have several members who comprise a color guard. The band supplies the flags - all you have to do is supply yourself!

How can I get involved? The Marching Pride's meetings are a mixture of fun and practicing. We usually meet once a month to practice, but this is open to change. We also have cookouts and other fun events. Most of our meetings are held at the Gay and Lesbian Community Center in Columbia, but we also meet at bandmembers' homes, depending on the event.

Do I have to be gay or lesbian to participate? No, we are happy to include everyone in our organization as long as they support our goal of primarily serving the lesbian and gay community.

To get involved, email us or call Matt Tischler at 803-553-3056.