FAMU Marching 100 performs in Paris fashion show
FAMU’s Marching 100 performed in Paris during the Louis Vuitton Fashion Show on Thursday.
Benji B, music director at Louis Vuitton Men’s, said this year’s show called for a marching band, and FAMU was an easy choice. “Authenticity is really at the center of everything we’re interested in,” Benji B said in a university press release. “We don’t reference things or emulate things. We go to the top, and that’s why we came to you.”
FAMU performed at 2:30 p.m. in Paris, which was 8:30 a.m. Eastern time. The performance is available on YouTube.
Benji B cited the Marching 100s history on big stages and their traditions for cementing his choice. “It’s watching homemade videos and iPhone footage of the Mighty Rattler Intro and the Snake Walk,” he said. “I have a great deal of respect for the incredible culture and heritage of this art form. What they do is at the very top.”
Louis Vuitton sponsored an all-expenses-paid trip for 35 students and 10 staff, according to the press release. Staff members worked on arrangements while band members began rehearsals before departing for the trip. On Sunday, band members began rehearsing songs in a studio and practicing routines on a simulated runway, according to the press release.
Director of Bands Shelby Chipman called the performance a significant accomplishment.
“I’m so proud of the tremendous work they have put into this show in a short time,” Chipman said. “Much love to Louis Vuitton and their artistic director Benji B. and the entire team. You are officially honorary FAMU Rattlers for Life.”