

MajORETTES
BEAUTY, STYLE AND GRACE.


The Sophisticated Ladies are the auxiliary dance team for the GRAMMY award winning Tennessee State University Aristocrat of Bands (AOB). Known for their beauty, style, and grace on and off the field, the Sophisticated Ladies pride themselves on passion, dedication, and heart for their university, community, and the artistry of dance. Envisioned and designed to be the upper echelon of dance teams, the Sophisticated Ladies bring a bold, jazzy flair to the field, bringing to life what the AOB does musically.
They interpret what your ears hear, and they bring to life what your eyes see.

Photo Gallery
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2024 - 2025
Captains

Throughout the history of the AOB, the Sophisticated Ladies (formally referred to TSU Majorettes until 1990) have been known to bring character and fashion to the HBCU dance arena through their movement, costuming, and vibrantly entertaining field shows. Though the auxiliary dance group for the AOB, the Sophisticated Ladies have become a nationally recognized organization and brand, with publications and features in ESSENCE magazine, The Tennessean, 19th News, Rolling Stone, and more. They have captured the attention of R&B and Country music artist K.Michelle, collaborating with her on various projects, including her debut as a country music artist during the 2023 CMA Fest and the viral TikTok song and dance “Rain”. The Sophisticated Ladies have performed on numerous national platforms including Essence Festival, The White House, Multiple NBA and NFL games, and the International Association for Blacks in Dance. In 2023 the Sophisticated Ladies were featured in an exhibit at the National Museum of African American Music in Nashville, Tennessee. The exhibit featured the 2023 Southern Heritage Costume under the artistic direction of Coach Melaeneice Gibbs, Dianna Williams, and designer Bella. The Sophisticated Ladies are well-rounded student dancers trained in ballet, jazz, contemporary, and various dance genres. All members maintain a 2.8 GPA or higher, with over half the team continuously on the Dean’s list each semester. The Sophisticated Ladies are committed to serving the Nashville community through outreach initiatives. Each year they volunteer at Metro Nashville Public Schools, giving their time to meet with and perform for students during Black History Month. Bonded together through their love and respect for dance, the Sophisticated Ladies are proud of the rich legacy that continues to generate productive educators, doctors, lawyers, teachers, entertainers, counselors, scientists, and community leaders who DANCE…Forever Sophisticated.

Coach


Melaneice
Gibbs
Melaneice Gibbs is a creative director, choreographer, dancer and baton twirler. Her technical background includes ballet, jazz, contemporary, and West African dance. As a HBCU performer and twirler with Jackson State University Sonic Boom of the South, and a member of Jackson State University Dance Ensemble, she is best known for creating forward-thinking concepts within the realm of HBCU dance. Melaneice has over 12 years of experience coaching, creating opportunities, and bridging gaps of diversity for dancers.

Highlights
Since stepping into her role, Coach Mel has driven the Sophisticated Ladies toward excellence, establishing a legacy of growth, opportunity, and national recognition. Her vision continues to shape their path, inspiring performances, partnerships, and lasting impact.
Established scholarship budget for the Sophisticated Ladies
Established foundation account for the Sophisticated Ladies
Featured in Essence Magazine, The Tennessean, and the 19th News
Created partnerships with NFL and NBA teams/coaches:
Please See **
Over $50,000 in donations in materials/resources and services
Feature Exhibit in the National African American Music Museum
“Off the 50” short documentary selected for screening at the 2024 Black Girls Rock Film Festival
Collaborated with K.Michelle for viral TikTok video to “Rain” and performed with K.Michelle during CMA Fest 2023
* Tampa Bay Buccanears Cheerleaders
* Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders
* Charlotte Hornets Honeybees
* Memphis Grizzlies Grizz Girls
* Chicago Bulls Luvabulls
* Tennessee Titans Cheerleaders

Support excellence and artistry by becoming a sponsor of the Sophisticated Ladies, the dynamic auxiliary dance team of the GRAMMY Award-winning Tennessee State University Aristocrat of Bands. Your sponsorship directly enhances our performances, elevates our visibility, and strengthens our legacy. With various sponsorship tiers available, there’s an opportunity for every partner to be part of our journey.
Join us in representing style, grace, and unmatched talent on and off the field.

Become A Sponsor
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Submit sponsorship inquiry

Donate
Support the Sophisticated Ladies by making a donation that directly contributes to the success and growth of this extraordinary auxiliary dance team. Your contributions help fund uniforms, scholarships, performance essentials, and team development. Whether through our foundation account, Amazon wish list, or sponsorship opportunities, your generosity ensures that the Sophisticated Ladies continue to perform at the highest level, representing grace, precision, and excellence on every stage.
Join us in empowering their journey today!
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How many spots are there on the dance line?There is not a set number of dancers, however the number of spots on the team are based on the number of eligible returning members and overall talent level during the audition process. The team can range between 10 - 17 dancers.
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Do you award scholarships?Yes! Dancers who make the team are awarded a scholarship. Scholarship amounts are based on skill. They are not need based.
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Can I be a member of the Sophisticated Ladies and another dance team or organization?No. Being a member of the Aristocrat of Bands is very demanding. Because dancers are on scholarship, it is important that we preserve dancers' bodies so that they are always ready and physically capable to perform.
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Can I audition more than once?Yes! We have a saying, “No doesn’t mean never, just not right now”. If you don’t make the team we encourage you to ask for feedback and try out again. There is no limit to the number of times you can try out for our team.
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Do I need experience in majorette dance to audition?The Sophisticated Ladies are well-rounded dancers trained in multiple genres of dance. Majorette experience is not required, however dance training and technical foundations are highly preferred. Please be sure to watch field show routines within the last 3-5 years to see what skills we showcase on the field. Required Technical Skills are: High Kicks (Battemént) Grand Jete Switch Leap Switch Leap in second position Leap in second position Double Pirouette Calypso Axle Turning leap in 2nd position Turning “C” Jump Tilt Jump Fouette turns A la Second Turns
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How do I audition?Auditions are open to incoming freshman, transfer students, and current TSU students that will be enrolled in Fall classes directly following Spring Auditions. Auditions take place in 2 rounds. Round 1: Preliminaries are virtual. Applicants will submit an online application that will include: Headshot, Full body picture (front and side facing), 2 Letters of Recommendation (1 dance and 1 academic or 2 academic), 60-90 second dance video, and 30 second introduction video. Round 2: Finals are in person and invitation only. After review of your online application, Coach Melaneice will review and select dancers to attend finals. Students who attend finals will learn a field show dance, 2-3 stand dances, learn and execute 1 technique combination, and interview in business professional attire. The new team will be selected at the end of the 2-3 day audition process.
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How much does it cost to be on the team?The Sophisticated Ladies have several out-of-pocket expenses that each member is responsible for i.e. shoes, boots, SL apparel, hair, makeup, etc. Upkeep of apparel, nails, and hair is required.

FAQ'S
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Captain
Madison Scott
Junior
3rd year Veteran
Detroit, Michigan
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