High Stepping Nationals is dedicated to promoting music education and the arts within minority and inner-city schools, as well as Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Our mission is to create opportunities that inspire, educate, and empower young artists, particularly those involved in high step marching and high-stepping marching bands, fostering their talents and enriching their communities through the vibrant culture of marching band high step.
At High Stepping Nationals, we are dedicated to celebrating and promoting the rich traditions and dynamic performances of high step marching bands and performing arts groups. Our mission is to provide a platform for young musicians, dancers, and performers to showcase their talents, compete at high levels, and achieve excellence in their craft.
Who We Are
High Stepping Nationals is a premier organization committed to fostering the growth and development of performing arts within our communities. We believe in the transformative power of music and high-stepping marching band performances, and our programs are designed to inspire, educate, and elevate young artists to new heights.
Our Legacy
Since 2002, High Stepping Nationals has proudly hosted the National High School High Stepping Marching Band Championship. This prestigious event has brought together talented high step marching bands from across the nation to compete, learn, and celebrate their achievements. Although we paused our events due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are excited to announce the triumphant return of the championship in 2024. We look forward to continuing our tradition of excellence and providing young performers with an exceptional platform to shine.
What We Do
Competitions: We organize and host top-tier competitions that bring together the best marching bands and performing arts groups from across the nation. These events provide participants with the opportunity to display their skills, gain recognition, and strive for excellence in the art of high step marching.
Clinics and Workshops: Our educational programs offer hands-on training and mentorship from industry professionals. Through clinics and workshops, participants receive valuable instruction and feedback to enhance their performance abilities.
Community Outreach: We are dedicated to making a positive impact in our communities. Our outreach initiatives aim to provide resources and opportunities to underserved areas, fostering a love for the performing arts among all youth.
Rodney Chambers is the Executive Director of High Stepping Nationals, where he brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the organization. A graduate of North Carolina A&T State University with a Bachelor's in Arts, Rodney has a distinguished background as a former high school band director in North Carolina, Virginia, and Washington DC. His extensive experience in high step marching, particularly in color guard and percussion, gained through various camps and high school band programs nationwide, further enhances his expertise in the high-stepping marching band field. As the CEO of Advance Employee Intelligence, a top-secret government contracting firm, Rodney has honed his strategic vision and leadership skills. He is also a dedicated father to two teenage boys, Charles and Carlos, and an active community leader, serving as a board member of the 100 Black Men of Prince George's County and a member of the Bowie Mitchellville Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Inc.
Dr. Kenneth G. Ruff
Director of Bands
North Carolina A&T State University
Member: Alpha Phi Alpha Inc.
See Bio Here
Dr. Taylor Whitehead
Director of Marching & Pep Bands
Virginia State University
Member: Alpha Phi Alpha Inc.
See Bio Here
Dr. Juliet Boykins
Director of Bands
Elizabeth City State University
Member: Delta Sigma Theta Inc.
See Bio Here
Dr. Rickkay L.T. King
Co-Founder
Phoenix International School of the Arts
Member: Kappa Alpha Psi Inc.
See Bio Here
Mr. QC Jones
Chief Executive Officer
NolanMackenzie Inc.
Member: Kappa Alpha Psi Inc.
See Bio Here
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High Stepping Nationals’ Audition Day is a one-of-a-kind experience designed to connect talented high ...
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location TBA soon
Prince George's County Public Schools Summer Music Camp
High Stepping Nationals invites students and educators to an exciting Summer Music ...
location TBA soon
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Get Ready for the 2026 Capitol Battle of the Bands!
🎺🥁 Mark your calendars for an electrifying day of music, culture, and competition!
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Location TBD
If you have questions about the opportunities available in our high step marching programs, feel free to send us a message. Whether you're interested in joining a high-stepping marching band or learning more about our marching band high step techniques, we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Open today | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm |
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