October 5, 2025

Marine Band Cancels Performance Due to Government Shutdown

Asheville, North Carolina, October 5, 2025

News Summary

The United States Marine Band has canceled its scheduled performance at Asheville High School as a result of the ongoing government shutdown. This event, eagerly anticipated by the local community, was slated for October 4 and was the first visit by the Marine Band in 20 years. School officials reported a high level of disappointment and uncertainty about rescheduling, as no further communication has been received from the band regarding a new date. Free tickets had been issued, and plans for alternative events have not been made.

Asheville, North Carolina—The United States Marine Band, known as “The President’s Own,” has canceled a performance that was scheduled for October 4 at Asheville High School due to the ongoing government shutdown. Officials announced that they would be unable to perform public-facing concerts until further notice.

The Marine Band was on a national tour, intending to visit 28 cities throughout the South during October. The cancellation has left many disappointed, especially since the performance at Asheville High School had been planned since December of the previous year. The school noted that the Marine Band has not visited the campus in 20 years, making this a highly anticipated event.

Principal Derek Edwards of Asheville High School indicated that the concert was expected to be a sold-out event, drawing attention not only from the local community but also from nearby schools. However, he expressed uncertainty regarding the possibility of rescheduling the concert, as there has been no communication from the band regarding a new date.

Asheville High School Band Director Rodney Workman commented on the situation, noting that students had eagerly awaited the visit and that many schools had planned to attend the concert as well. Given that tickets for the concert were free, the school has opted not to organize an alternative event in place of the canceled performance.

In summary, the concert’s cancellation has caused disappointment among students and the broader community in Asheville, who had looked forward to the special occasion. The future of rescheduling remains uncertain as officials await further guidance from the Marine Band.

Background on the Marine Band

The United States Marine Band, established in 1798, is one of the oldest and most distinguished musical organizations in the country. Known as “The President’s Own,” it performs for the President of the United States and represents the Marine Corps at various public events. Tours across the nation, such as the one planned for October, highlight its commitment to outreach and engagement with communities, demonstrating the integral role of music in American culture.

Impact of Government Shutdown

The recent government shutdown has affected numerous federal operations, leading to the cancellation of many events and negatively impacting various sectors. In this instance, the Marine Band’s inability to conduct scheduled performances illustrates the ripple effect of broader governmental disruptions on cultural and community activities.

FAQ Section

What was the reason for the cancellation of the Marine Band performance?

The United States Marine Band canceled a performance scheduled for October 4 at Asheville High School due to the government shutdown.

When was the Marine Band performance at Asheville High School scheduled?

The performance was scheduled for October 4.

How long had the concert been planned?

The performance had been planned since December.

When was the last time the Marine Band visited Asheville High School?

The Marine Band has not visited the school in 20 years.

What is the status of rescheduling the concert?

Principal Derek Edwards stated that there has been no communication from the band regarding a new date, leaving the possibility of rescheduling uncertain.

Were tickets for the concert free?

Yes, tickets for the concert were free.

Will Asheville High School host an alternative event instead of the canceled performance?

No, Asheville High School has no plans to host an alternative event in place of the canceled performance.

Key Features

Feature	Description
Event Date	October 4
Location	Asheville High School
Reason for Cancellation	Government Shutdown
Planning Duration	Since December
Previous Visit	20 years ago
Ticket Status	Free
Alternative Event	No plans for an alternative event