DistrictDeacon
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- Mar 18, 2011
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I think what's lost here is that all of the changes being suggested are outside of anyone's control. I don't think anyone would disagree that changes are needed but forcing people to play a new instrument or forcing music majors to be in marching band for a semester are just bandaid solutions. Those of us that did marching band did it because it was fun. Basketball certainly helped with that in my case (2001-2005) but I still did it in 2006 when I knew I was going to graduate in December. It worked out great because that was the year we won the ACC.
When people complain about the size of the band, it feels targeted at those either in band or those in charge when in reality, there isn't much they can do to improve the situation. Whether intentional or not, comments like our band is a joke and a laughingstock is insulting to those who do actively participate in it.
We've always been a small band because we're a small school. When I was there, we had the highest % of undergraduate students in marching band. I don't know if that's still the case.
3rd and 4th year members get a stipend and that's very helpful but as a new player, that seems like a far off goal. However, without additional funding from the athletic department, there's not much more the band directors can do.
Sounds like the band director should ask for money if they’re tired of being considered a joke. Or stop trying to be something they can’t be.