Marching Band
Over the years, under the direction of Greg Bimm, Marian Catholic Bands have earned hundreds of awards and honors. In the State of Illinois Marching Band Championships alone, Marian remains undefeated in its class since 1980. This 42-year streak is unprecedented in any arena. The Spartans have also won 20 overall state titles. In Bands of America Competition, Marian Catholic's band has been named Summer National Champion five times (1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, and 1988), Class AA National Champion 23 times in 36 appearances; and Grand National Champion seven times (1985, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1994, 1997, and 2000), a record unmatched by any other high school band in the country.
The Marian Catholic Band is a holder of three Illinois and four Chicago Heights honorary proclamations, including a joint Illinois House and Senate proclamation in 1990. The band is also twice entered in the United States Congressional record in congratulatory commendatory messages. The Band has performed in two Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parades: 2006 and 2013, the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade in 2010, and the 2000 Presidential Inauguration Parade.
Approximately 20% of Marian Catholic's student body is involved in the band. While the majority have a music background, students do not know how to play an instrument to be a part of the band. Rehearsals take place during the summer, and evenings during marching season. The band participates in several competitions each season both locally and in Music for All's Bands of America events.
