Keep on Marching...Don't Give Up
Marching into Juneteenth–Marching into Freedom™
Marching into Juneteenth–Marching into Freedom™ is MiMa's signature performance and educational initiative. This program honors Juneteenth not only as emancipation remembered, but also as freedom realized through the endurance, discipline, and collective movement of our Instrumental Ambassadors.
from division to freedom
Civil War Integration
MiMa's Juneteenth framework incorporates the historical arc of the Civil War, highlighting the journey of our Instrumental Ambassadors in the fight for freedom. This journey includes: Division (1861), Declaration (1863), Delay (1863-1865), and Freedom Realized (June 19, 1865). This approach transforms performance into civic education, allowing students and audiences to experience history through music and movement, effectively marching into freedom as they express the framework of the entire Juneteenth experience.
Instrumental Ambassador Audition Applications 2026
The Instrumental Ambassador Program, known as Marching into Freedom™, is a selective performance cohort associated with the Juneteenth initiative. Each year, 32 students are chosen from various regions through auditions to become Instrumental Ambassadors, representing their schools and communities. Selected students engage in a structured Ambassador Band Camp, receive leadership and ensemble training, and participate in the Juneteenth parade and performance(s).
Marching into Juneteenth–Marching into Freedom™ Global Founding Global Edition — 2026
MIJ-MIF Global is an international musical and cultural initiative uniting collegiate marching ensembles, student musicians, educators, and communities through synchronized performances centered on freedom, resilience, remembrance, leadership, and artistic advocacy.
The Founding Global Edition seeks to connect participating institutions across the United States and abroad through coordinated local performances presented collectively through a livestream and digital broadcast experience.
