(Austell, Georgia) — Coahoma Community College’s Marching Maroon Typhoon (MMT) delivered a standout performance November 8-9, as the featured collegiate entertainment band at The Grand Royale Marching Invitational in Austell, Georgia. Hosted by The D Dub Arts Foundation and South Cobb’s Soaring Sound, the high-profile event showcased some of the most elite high school marching bands in the nation—making the Typhoon’s appearance a major milestone for the program.
The invitation was extended by Mr. Curtis McCullough of the D Dub Foundation, a moment Band Director Eddie Buggs recalls with excitement.
“When I received the call inviting Coahoma Community College to perform as the collegiate exhibition band at The Grand Royale, I was extremely excited,” he said. “I couldn’t wait to share the news with our staff, students, and administrators. It was truly a prestigious honor.”
A Season of Preparation
Preparation for the performance began in August during Pre-Drill, with the band refining its show week after week.
“Just as we prepare for football games, we focused heavily on sound quality, marching energy, and overall performance excellence,” Buggs explained. “It’s a daily commitment that the students take seriously.”
Representing CCC With Purpose
Taking the field in front of thousands, the Marching Maroon Typhoon aimed to make more than just an impression, they hoped to inspire.
“I pray we left the message that CCC can be a first choice destination for student musicians and dancers,” Buggs said.
Their performance placed CCC in the national spotlight, offering a glimpse of the college’s vibrant culture, artistic talent, and commitment to developing well-rounded performers.
A Milestone for Recruitment and Growth
The experience represents a significant step forward for the band program.
“Performing on at the Grand Royale was a major coup for the Marching Maroon Typhoon,” Buggs said. “Being seen by some of the best high school bands in the nation will greatly support our efforts to grow, musically and numerically.”
Building Unity, Skill, and Pride
Beyond the applause, participating in The Grand Royale enriched the band’s sense of community and strengthened the program’s foundation.
“This opportunity allowed us to see and hear high-quality bands, both high school and college,” Buggs noted. “It helped us evaluate where we stand nationally, what we’re doing well, and where we can push ourselves further.”
He added that experiences like this reinforce the principles at the heart of the MMT, reflected in its guiding motto:
Qualities to Guide our Thoughts, to Rule our Actions, and to Live our Lives:
- Highest Quality of Character
- Achievement in Academics
- Attainment in Leadership
- Perfection in Musicianship
- Precision in Marching
- Dedication to Service
“These values shape who we are as a band,” he said. “They create unity, purpose, and a level of excellence we strive for every day.”
A Role Model of Excellence
With their powerful display at The Grand Royale, the Marching Maroon Typhoon continues to cement its place as one of the region’s most dynamic collegiate bands; capable of competing, inspiring, and elevating every stage they touch.
For more information about joining the MMT or supporting the band program, please contact the Coahoma Community College Department of Fine Arts.