The University of Washington Husky Marching Band (HMB) is a 240-member ensemble utilizing the traditional chair-step and toe-point style of marching. The HMB is a year round ensemble that actively participates in supporting all of the Husky Athletics. All members participate during the fall to help support Husky Football at all home football games and even selected away games. Selected members also have the chance to help support other sports such as Men's and Women's Basketball, Volleyball, Softball, Baseball, and even some Gymnastics, Swimming and Track events! The HMB is also a used as a valuable community promoter, making appearances for local businesses, participating in such events as the annual Seafair Parade, and performing at professional sporting events.

The first marching band on the campus of the University of Washington was started after two years of exhaustive efforts to establish a campus-wide band. The first rehearsal was held on Tuesday, March 5, 1901 at the University Armory. Students who participated in the band were permitted to miss compulsory military drill when it conflicted with practice. Don Myer, the bandmaster of the Seattle Military Band, led the first group.

In 1929, Walter Welke organized the official 'Husky Marching Band.' Starting with an initial membership of just 34, Welke worked to quickly build up the size of the band that had more than doubled to 70 members in just two years. The new Husky Marching Band took over the ROTC band's duties of performing at football games. Under the direction of Welke, the band adopted its current 'high-stepping' style of marching and became an innovator in the combination of on-field drill and musical performance. It was also noted as being one of the few bands on the west coast that was composed entirely of University students, a point of pride in the newly formed ensemble.

By 1940, the band had reached 144 members in number. The outbreak of war the following year took a heavy toll on the band with many students serving overseas in defense of the Union and the University. The size on the band decreased dramatically during this period of conflict.

Welke retired as marching band director in 1958 after nearly 30-years of uninterrupted service to Washington and Bill Cole, a 1946 graduate of Illinois, replaced him. Cole had served the past 10 years as Assistant Marching Band Director under Welke before his promotion.

After a string of losing seasons, things were pretty quiet in the student section of Husky Stadium by the late 60's. However, the 1970's saw spirit return with a whole new style when Rob Weller made his debut as Yell King. Capturing student energy with new cheers and an abundance of wit and enthusiasm, Weller brought new life to Husky Stadium. In addition to being recognized as the former co-host of "Entertainment Tonight," Weller, along with then band director Bill Bissell, is credited with creating "The Wave" when he returned to Washington for Homecoming, 1981.

Succeeding Cole on his retirement in 1970 was Bill Bissell. One of the great showmen among college band directors, Husky crowds watched Bissell's bands recreate the Mt. St. Helens eruption, stage horse races and wear outrageous costumes. In addition to his duties with the Husky Band, Bissell was also placed in charge of commencement and served as an administrator for the Alumni Association.

Since its inception in 1929, the Husky Band has gone through many changes, but still strives for a high degree of musicality, precision marching and the ultimate in Husky spirit and pride. The current director, Dr. J. Bradley McDavid, is the HMB's fourth Head Director.