Retired Man Achieves Dream of Joining LSU Marching Band

A 66-year-old former accountant is now living out his childhood ambition by becoming a freshman at Louisiana State University and joining its renowned marching band.

Kent Brussard, who resides in Baton Rouge, explained that he initially contemplated this journey while working in the corporate sector. He recalled a conversation with his wife and family about five years ago where he expressed his desire to enroll at LSU and march with the famed Tiger Band.

This lifelong Louisianan, who plays the Sousaphone, faced no special advantages as he pursued his dream of joining the esteemed group of 325 musicians known as the “Tigerland Golden Band.”

Brussard went through the regular admissions process at LSU, just like any other student, which included attending classes, studying, and completing assignments. “I had to register at LSU,” he said, emphasizing the necessary steps he needed to take to be part of the Tiger Band.

Having spent years as an executive in the alcoholic beverage industry, he had to brush up on his musical skills to prepare for this new endeavor.

After not playing an instrument for 45 years, Brussard dedicated a year to practice the Sousaphone, learning with the help of LSU graduate assistant Matthew Thompson. “I practiced daily, often until midnight,” he shared. “It was like riding a bike; it started to come back. My family was incredibly supportive.”

As he trained, local LSU fans rallied around him, even helping him carry the hefty Sousaphone around his neighborhood.

All his hard work culminated in a joyous moment when he saw his name listed on the roster for the Grammy-nominated band for the 2025-2026 academic year. “When I finally saw it, the enthusiasm was contagious,” he reflected, recalling the excitement when he was greeted by fellow band members celebrating his inclusion.

At 66, Brussard holds the title of the oldest member of the band in 41 years. His wife, Cheryl, initially misunderstood his ambitions, thinking he was trying out for a “senior” civic band. “I was confused at first,” she admitted. “I didn’t realize it was a real, competitive band.” However, she now fully supports his involvement.

While he cherishes being part of the band, Brussard remains committed to his academic responsibilities, as being a full-time student is a requirement for all band members. They must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 to stay in good standing at the university.

Brussard made his debut with the band at Tiger Stadium during the home opener for the football team, performing songs from classics like “The Wizard of Oz” and “Wicked.”