Baton Rouge, Louisiana, September 19, 2025
News Summary
Kent Broussard, a 66-year-old retiree, has accomplished his lifelong dream of joining the LSU Tiger Marching Band. After being inspired by a performance in his childhood, he dedicated himself to relearning the tuba and successfully auditioned for the band. Broussard’s determination has attracted national media attention and serves as an inspiration that one can pursue dreams at any age.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana – Kent Broussard, a 66-year-old retiree, has fulfilled his lifelong dream of joining the Louisiana State University (LSU) Tiger Marching Band. Inspired by a childhood experience of witnessing the band’s performance in 1968, Broussard decided to pursue this ambition after retiring. His journey includes overcoming age barriers, relearning to play the tuba, and completing a rigorous audition process for the band.
Broussard, who initially established a career as an accountant and started a family, thought he might have aged out of the opportunity to join the band. However, upon retiring, he resolved to give it a chance. His wife, Cheryl, was initially uncertain about his goal, even inquiring whether there was a senior band. Despite the skepticism, Broussard worked diligently towards his dream.
Determined to make the band, Broussard returned to school to relearn how to play the tuba—a musical instrument he hadn’t touched in 45 years. He prepared extensively, engaging in late-night practices and physical training by running with a weighted vest and marching while carrying a sousaphone. The sousaphone is a brass instrument from the tuba family that is commonly used in marching bands.
After undergoing a competitive audition process under band director Simon Holoweiko, Broussard earned his spot in the band, becoming its oldest member by 41 years. He performed his first show during the LSU football team’s home opener against Louisiana Tech on September 6, 2025. The band entertained the crowd with musical selections from “The Wizard of Oz,” “The Wiz,” and “Wicked.”
Broussard’s achievement was highlighted when his name was added to the band roster, resulting in applause from fellow band members. He emphasized the importance of pursuing dreams, stating that while people may retire, dreams do not have to fade away. To maintain his eligibility for the band, he enrolled as a full-time non-traditional student at LSU, undertaking 12 credit hours while upholding a minimum GPA.
His remarkable journey has attracted national media attention, leading to features on platforms such as CBS News and ESPN, as well as articles in major publications like the Associated Press and The Athletic. Supported by his family, Broussard’s determination serves as an inspiration to many, highlighting that it is never too late to chase one’s dreams.
The LSU Marching Band, known as the “Golden Band from Tigerland,” boasts a rich history and has received Grammy nominations for their musical accomplishments. Broussard joins a proud tradition and endeavors to inspire others by demonstrating that dedication and passion can prevail, regardless of age.
FAQ
What inspired Kent Broussard to join the LSU Tiger Marching Band?
Broussard was inspired after seeing the band perform as a young child in 1968.
How old is Kent Broussard when he joined the band?
Broussard is 66 years old.
What instrument does Kent Broussard play in the marching band?
Broussard plays the sousaphone.
When was Kent Broussard’s first performance with the band?
His first performance was during the LSU football team’s home opener against Louisiana Tech on September 6, 2025.
What is the history of the LSU Marching Band?
The LSU Marching Band, known as the “Golden Band from Tigerland,” is a Grammy-nominated ensemble with a proud history.
Key Features of Kent Broussard’s Journey
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Age | 66 years old |
| Instrument | Sousaphone |
| First Performance | September 6, 2025 |
| Inspiration | Saw the band perform in 1968 |
| Education | Full-time non-traditional student at LSU, 12 credit hours |
| Band Name | Golden Band from Tigerland |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Louisiana Universities Face Challenges with New Hazing Law
Retired Accountant Realizes Child’s Dream at LSU Marching Band
Retired Accountant Becomes Oldest LSU Marching Band Member
Retired Accountant Enrolls as Freshman in LSU Marching Band
Retired Accountant Achieves Dream of Joining LSU Marching Band
Aspiring Musician Achieves Dream with LSU Golden Band
Shreveport Celebrates Black History Month with Grand Parade
Additional Resources
- CBS News
- Wikipedia: Louisiana State University
- The Guardian
- Google Search: LSU Tiger Marching Band
- New York Post
- Google Scholar: Kent Broussard LSU Marching Band
- WAFB
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Marching Band
- The New York Times
- Google News: Kent Broussard LSU Marching Band
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
