66 Year Old Reaches His Dream: the College Marching Band

September 17, 2025 — The dream retired accountant Kent Broussard had since 1968 was to play in a big time college marching band. Now at age 66, the Sousaphone player has reached that goal, and is loving every second.

Kent, a freshman at Louisiana State University, is thrilled to be member of the LSU band, playing for the fans and players at Tiger Stadium. The journey he started mapping out in 2023 was not easy. Marching bands are meant for younger people – the physical, mental, and musical challenges of marching in step, carrying a heavy instrument, and playing an instrument are very difficult. To prepare he had been running since age 50, often logging more than 20 miles per week. He did weight training to simulate carrying his heavy instrument. He also had to learn how to march, read music, acquire a tuba, and take lessons.

Watch this entertaining clip on PBS!

Would he get selected?

Making the band is not easy. Like a lot of other aspiring marchers, Kent was glued to his phone in late August to see if he was selected. Upon seeing his name he was ecstatic, and so was his family. Having had to listen to him practice for hours, they were supportive and glad for his success. How many years he will continue on the band is up in the air, as Kent already has two college degrees!

Inspiraton for every retiree

We love Kent’s story. How he knew what he wanted and sacrificed to achieve it. Very inspiring for all of us!

PBS Newshour interview clip.