North Dakota marching band proves a hit in Derry

The band has proved a hit. Credit: UTV

Guildhall Square in Londonderry has been playing host to a parade and a marching band with a difference.

Musicians from North Dakota State University proved to be a big hit, as they brought a flavour of campus life from across the pond.

For some in the Gold Star Marching Band it was their first time away from home.

“I’ve never been out of the country before so this is my first time out of the US,” one of the musicians told UTV.

“To represent our university and our state in such a way is really amazing. It’s a really great feeling, our jackets even on the back say ‘pride of North Dakota’.”

Dr Sigurd Johnson from North Dakota State University said the band is especially looking forward to playing on St Patrick’s Day.

“We’re really proud to be here and we love this week, where we can be in Ireland for the St Patrick’s Day festival,” he said.

“We’re looking forward to playing in Dublin in a few days then we’re going to be marching two parades on St Patrick’s Day so that’ll be a lot of fun.

“Plus we get to see a beautiful country in the meantime!”