For many, music is a passion. For Aidan Moore, it’s a calling. Born into a family deeply rooted in the legacy of Florida A&M University’s Marching 100, Aidan dreamed of being part of a prestigious marching band since childhood. His journey, however, is extraordinary—not just because he achieved his dream, but because he did so while overcoming the challenges of progressive hearing loss.
Now a senior at St. Augustine High School, Aidan serves as a drum major for the school’s renowned Marching 100. His leadership, resilience, and unwavering determination have inspired many, proving that limitations are only as powerful as the doubts we allow them to create.
A Legacy of Music and Determination
Music runs in Aidan’s blood. Growing up, he was surrounded by the powerful energy of marching bands, inspired by his uncles and older brother.
“My mom told me I knew how to march before I knew how to walk,” Aidan shares.
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That passion only grew stronger over the years. St. Augustine High School’s Marching 100 was a dream he set his sights on early in life, and through hard work, discipline, and an unbreakable spirit, he made it a reality.
Turning Hearing Loss Into a Superpower
Aidan was born with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, a genetic condition that has gradually progressed over time. But rather than viewing it as a setback, he embraced it as a source of strength—thanks to the wisdom of his father.
“My dad always told me to use my hearing loss as a superpower rather than a limitation,” Aidan says. “He went through a similar process and always carried himself as if it didn’t affect him. That mindset shaped me—I see it as a challenge to overcome, not something that defines my limits.”
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From an early age, Aidan learned to adapt. The powerful sounds of marching bands helped him train his senses, sharpening his ability to feel the rhythm and stay in sync with the music. His perseverance paid off. Not only did he earn a spot in the Marching 100, but he rose through the ranks to become a drum major.
His advice to others facing similar challenges?
“If it’s what you want to do, don’t let anything stop you. Instead of seeing obstacles, find a way around them—find the ‘loophole.’ Have the discipline to achieve what you want and the drive to not let other people’s doubts stop you.”
Leading the Marching 100
For Aidan, becoming a leader in the Marching 100 was more than a personal achievement—it was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.
“It’s been an incredible experience. Even before I officially joined, I already felt part of the band. I had to prove myself, just like everyone else, and work hard to earn my spot. Leading the band in New Orleans was not just about me—it was about upholding the legacy and motivating my bandmates,” he says.
As a drum major, Aidan has had the opportunity to represent his school and his community in high-profile performances, including parades and special ceremonies. His leadership has made a lasting impact, showing that perseverance and passion can transcend any challenge.
Support from His Medical Team and Family
Aidan’s journey hasn’t gone unnoticed by the medical professionals who have helped him along the way. His audiologist, Laura Neff, has been deeply impressed by his resilience.
“Despite having significant hearing loss, he does extremely well with his hearing aids, which I found really impressive,” Neff tells BlackDoctor.org.
St. Augustine High School’s Marching 100 is known for its competitive nature, making Aidan’s accomplishment even more remarkable.
“To become a leader in a band like this is impressive on its own, but knowing his history with hearing loss makes it even more extraordinary. He’s confident, well-spoken, and talented. You wouldn’t even notice his hearing loss until you really get to know him because he works so hard to overcome it,” Neff adds.
Aidan credits the team at Children’s Hospital New Orleans for helping him manage his hearing loss, ensuring he has the right tools to thrive.
“They made medical visits more comfortable and helped me adjust to my hearing aids. Their support motivated me to keep pushing forward,” he shares.
His family has also played a crucial role in his journey.
“Aidan grew up in a household with a significant age gap between siblings, which meant he was raised in a more mature environment. Early on, there were challenges with his hearing, including medical procedures and adjustments to hearing aids. The team at Children’s Hospital helped ease those fears,” his mother shares. “We also made sure he experienced as much of life as possible, including international travel, so that if he ever had to rely on his other senses more in the future, he would still have a full, well-rounded experience.”
A Historic Marching Band with a Global Impact
The St. Augustine High School Marching 100 has long been an institution of excellence in New Orleans and beyond. Founded in 1951, the school itself was established by the Josephite Priests and Brothers of the Sacred Heart with a mission to educate and empower young Black men.
The Marching 100 made history in 1967 when they became the first band to integrate the Mardi Gras Parade with the Rex Organization. Over the years, they’ve gained national recognition, producing alumni like Grammy-winning musician Jon Batiste.
This past summer, the Marching 100 traveled to Normandy, France, for a once-in-a-lifetime performance commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Their presence was not only a musical tribute but a celebration of the Black soldiers who played a vital role in the historic invasion—men whose contributions are often overlooked in mainstream narratives.
Aidan was among the students who took part in this monumental experience, carrying both his school’s legacy and his own personal triumph onto the international stage.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Aidan hopes that his story will inspire others to embrace their individuality and chase their dreams without fear.
“Never give up on who you are. Fear shouldn’t define you. Just because you have something different from others doesn’t mean it should dictate your life. Nothing is stopping you from becoming the next Bill Gates, Michelle Obama, or Barack Obama—it’s all about dedication and believing in yourself,” he says.
His audiologist, Laura Neff, echoes that sentiment.
“Aidan’s story speaks for itself—he’s extremely talented and doesn’t let his hearing loss define him. A key takeaway is that he consistently wears and utilizes his hearing aids, which has helped him fully engage in his activities. If you don’t wear your hearing aids, they won’t help you, and Aidan is a great example of someone who fully embraces the tools available to him,” Neff concludes.
With his remarkable journey, Aidan Moore is proving that no obstacle is too great when passion and perseverance lead the way. He isn’t just marching to the beat of his own drum—he’s leading the way for others to follow.
