Muskie Marching Band helps fans get in the mood

"College band is all about entertainment," said David Turrill, director of the 2011 Muskie Marching Band. "It's about pumping the crowd up."

Nothing could be more true, not only do they add entertainment to home games, but they set the mood for football players and fans alike. From the opening notes of the "Star-Spangled Banner" to the final phrases of the "Muskingum Fight Song," a football game just wouldn't be the same without the band.

The Muskingum Marching Band has faded into the background. Until three years ago, they just played in the stands, but the past few years it has been making a comeback – including resuming marching while playing on the field during half-time. They also expanded and harmonized the traditional theme from Jaws which is played in the middle of the Muskingum Fight Song.

Pre-game show last Saturday started the evening by setting the mood. Robert Owen Jones, 1963 Muskingum Alum, joined the Muskies on the field for pre-game. The Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities sang the "Star-Spangled Banner" followed by "The Alma Mater" while accompanied by the Muskie Marching Band.

During half-time, the band rocked out with a Current Hits show, featuring Taio Cruz's "Dynamite," Cee Lo Green's "Forget You," and the chart-topping single by Lady Gaga, "Bad Romance." Coming up is a Classic Rock show, including "25 or 6 to 4" by Chicago, The Spencer Davis Group's "Gimme Some Lovin'" and Guns ‘n' Roses' "Sweet Child o' Mine."

In addition, you can hear them belt out songs when Muskingum makes a first down, makes an interception, and of course scores a touchdown.

There is more to the band than just getting out on the field or in the stands and playing. It all starts the week before classes, when the members join on campus for band camp. The band spends time on the field learning the formations and practicing and memorizing the music for each show. It isn't all work though; there is plenty of fun during the week, such as a somewhat secretive game called "Psychiatrist" (sorry, you'll have to join to find out how to play). They also enjoy a swimming party mid-week.

Being a part of band isn't just about the music either, Senior and 4 year member, Amy Streeter says.

"It's a great way to meet people," said Streeter. "Usually the same people are members each year, but there are new members to get to know each year as well."

Senior Eric Remlinger agrees.

"It is like we are a big family," Remlinger, also a 4 year member, and student conductor in the stands for 3 years agrees. "We are there for each other, and overall, it is a really positive experience."