About Us
Mission Statement
Mission Statement
Mission Statement
The Cleveland Pride Band creates an authentic space for LGBTQ+ and allied musicians to promote community, visibility, education and engagement through music performance. We welcome adult musicians of all skill levels, ages, and identities.
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Our Associations
Mission Statement
Mission Statement
We have been a part of the Pride Band Alliance since 2004, and is a membership organization of LGBTQ+ community concert and marching bands from cities around the world.
We also also a part of the Association of Concert Bands who look to advance the excellence in concert band music through performance & education
The Band Today
The Band Today
The Band Today
The Cleveland Pride Band has come a long way, and now is proud to say we are 100+ active members playing! The band underwent a rebrand in January 2023, and it has had a tremendously positive impact on the group. The rebranding has allowed the band to refocus its energy and efforts, and it has also brought new life and excitement to the o
The Cleveland Pride Band has come a long way, and now is proud to say we are 100+ active members playing! The band underwent a rebrand in January 2023, and it has had a tremendously positive impact on the group. The rebranding has allowed the band to refocus its energy and efforts, and it has also brought new life and excitement to the organization. With its new look and energy, the Cleveland Pride Band has been able to attract new members and revitalize its existing fanbase. Despite all the challenges it has faced, the Cleveland Pride Band is now a thriving, vibrant, and successful organization, and it shows no signs of slowing down.
Our History
The Band Today
The Band Today
Gay marching bands have existed since 1978 when bands were formed in San Francisco, Houston, and Los Angeles. In September of 1982 the leaders of eight independent bands from across the United States met in Chicago and agreed to form the Lesbian and Gay Bands of America (LGBA). The original LGBA member bands were from Chicago, Dallas, Hou
Gay marching bands have existed since 1978 when bands were formed in San Francisco, Houston, and Los Angeles. In September of 1982 the leaders of eight independent bands from across the United States met in Chicago and agreed to form the Lesbian and Gay Bands of America (LGBA). The original LGBA member bands were from Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, New York City, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C.
The Cleveland Pride Band was founded in September 2003, originally known as the Cleveland Lesbian/Gay/Allies Concert/Marching Band. Throughout 2004, the band quickly became active in the community, performing in the Cleveland Pride Parade, hosting concerts, and collaborating with other LGBA bands at pride events across the country. In March 2007, the band adopted a new name — the Blazing River Freedom Band — reflecting its evolving identity and mission.
In 2023, to celebrate its 20th anniversary and embrace a more inclusive spirit, the band rebranded once again as the Cleveland Pride Band. This marked the beginning of a dynamic new chapter, characterized by rapid growth and a broader reach. Today, the organization includes more than 100 members, spanning four generations and representing the full spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community.
The Cleveland Pride Band now features five unique musical ensembles that perform across Northeast Ohio — in concert halls, public parks, pride festivals, and community events. The band proudly holds a residency at the Maltz Center for the Performing Arts in University Circle.
Our Friends
