2000s

Former Marching Chief and FSU alum Dr. David Plack was appointed Director of Athletic Bands in 2004. Since then, he has led the Marching Chiefs alongside Dr. Dunnigan and continues to direct the Seminole Sound pep band. He also teaches the Marching Band Techniques course, conducts the University Symphonic Band, and contributes new drill designs and arrangements.

In 2005, former FSU lacrosse coach Bill Harkins made a generous donation to create a new artificial turf practice field at the Manley R. Whitcomb Band Complex. Named Bill Harkins Field, it provided the Marching Chiefs with a rehearsal space that mirrored the look of Bobby Bowden Field on game day.

Retired FSU music professor Tommie Wright conducted the Marching Chiefs in the fight song during the Maryland-FSU game on November 21, 2009. Wright co-wrote the song in 1950 with Doug Alley, composing the tune in 20 minutes and adding the final F-L-O-R-I-D-A, S-T-A-T-E chant. The song debuted on October 28, 1950, during the homecoming game that inaugurated Doak Campbell Stadium.

In January 2015, the Marching Chiefs made their first-ever appearance in the iconic Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, California, showcasing their precision and spirit to a global audience before performing at the Rose Bowl Game.

The Marching Chiefs proudly represented Florida State University and the United States by performing in Paris and Normandy, France, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of D-Day, with memorable performances at Trocadéro Gardens, the Monument of the 29th Infantry, the D-Day Parade, the Normandy American Cemetery wreath-laying ceremony, and the Parc André Citroën.

In 2021, the Marching Chiefs honored legendary FSU coach Bobby Bowden with a halftime tribute, forming the word “Bobby” on the field and playing “Amazing Grace.” Bowden, who led the Seminoles from 1976 to 2009, won two national championships and became one of the winningest coaches in college football history.

The Chiefs traveled to Dublin, Ireland, to perform at the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, kicking off the season with a spirited show for an international audience during FSU’s game against Georgia Tech.

In October of 2024, the Marching Chiefs debuted new uniforms during a home game against Clemson, enhancing their iconic look with updated designs that thrilled fans and honored tradition.