All-State Band
About Us
Lions of Michigan All-State Band
The Lions of Michigan All-State Band serves the world through music.
Our group is predominately comprised of high school musicians, from a wide variety of Michigan school districts and backgrounds, who have united for a common cause; to share music with those who need to hear it most.
History of Lions Band
In 1978, the Lions of Michigan All-State Band was formed as a musical ensemble to accompany the incoming Lions International President, Ralph A. Lynam, who happened to be from St. John's, Michigan. Since its inception, the band has attended and performed at the annual Lions Clubs International convention each year by marching in the Lions International Parade, with more than 10,000 delegates in attendance.
Students from over 300 Michigan high schools and communities have participated in the band since it took its first marching high-steps, and now averages 45-75 students each year. The number of students is on the rise, and the band has now set its sights on achieving a goal of more than 150 high school student musicians in uniform.
As the band continues to grow, so does its commitment to serving communities throughout the state of Michigan, and the world, through the gift of music.
TESTIMONIALS
What is it like being in Lions Band?
Marching Band, Relationships, and The Impact of Music | Kelsey Heck Wood | Spotlight Video (2022)
Serving The World Through Music Impacted My Life | Christine Varley | Spotlight Video (2022)
A Marching Band That Helps You Grow | Shanna Duellman | Lions of Michigan All-State Band (2023)
Our Goals
We provide all of our student musicians with experience in 4 major categories.
These categories reflect our focus and values as a service organization.
How can i join Lions Band?
The Lions of Michigan All-State Band is currently accepting applications for their upcoming 2025 tour to Orlando, Florida for the 107th annual Lions Clubs International Convention.
If you're a passionate, hard-working high school musician eager to embark on a Lions Band adventure, simply fill out the application below and submit a video audition to us using the required audition materials.
Marching Band Staff
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How do band members pay for the tour?Students are responsible for paying their own tour fee. They may approach local Lions Clubs, band boosters, service clubs, and other community organizations for financial assistance. However, funds not raised through these efforts must be paid by the individual band members. Full payment must be received at least one month prior to departure.
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What does the tour fee include?The tour fee includes all transportation, meals, lodging, tours and admissions. Band members are provided two travel uniforms (shirt/short/socks), a video tape, audio recording, Lions parade patch, souvenir pin, and certificate of participation. Meals are also provided during the rehearsals. The total cost varies according to the destination and length of the tour.
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How do students become members of the band?Band students can submit a video audition in order to be selected during our annual audition process. Sometimes we hold in-person auditions at various high schools throughout the state, and will make that information readily available on our website prior to the audition dates.
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How do the Lions Clubs of Michigan support the band?Lions Clubs pay the administrative costs of the band, including music, supplies, telephone, postage, insurance, dress uniforms, instruments, equipment, rent of rehearsal facilities, and staff costs. Some Lions Clubs also choose to donate money toward the trip fees of individual band members.
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When and where does the band rehearse?Auditions and rehearsals take place at a mid-Michigan school. Specific details and rehearsal dates are printed in the tour information pamphlet each year and will be made available on our website as rehearsal dates approach.
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How can I get more information about Lions Band?Other than reading through the material on our website, mail is sent to high school band directors and to Lions and Lioness Clubs throughout the state of Michigan each year. It contains audition information, application forms, and highlights of the current year’s tour.