As it nears the end of July many people are disappointed that summer is going by so quickly, but for others this is an exciting time because it begins the countdown to band camp. At Mansfield University, The Spirit And The Pride Of Pennsylvania Marching Band is a unique opportunity to be involved in the music program as a music major or a non- music major. And the deadline to hand in the band form has been extended to Aug. 4.
Here are the top reasons to join The Spirit And The Pride Of Pennsylvania Marching Band brought to you by SpongeBob SquarePants.
1. If you're bad at following sports, you can still cheer from the stands.
Even if you have no idea what's going on during a football game, cheering in the stands with the band is always a good time. We are like a big dysfunctional family who yells out "clever" chants and cheers during the game and it gets you really hyped to perform the show at halftime.
2. Original Music
The music to for the marching band shows is written by the director, so you won't be doing a cliche show with music that ten other schools are performing as well. Also, he's always trying to incorporate neat horn moves into the show so it gives people in the band an opportunity to contribute ideas.
3. It's a great way to stay in shape.
If you don't already have calves of steel from climbing the butler stairs, Marching Band will assure that happens. Not only do you get to hang out with awesome people and learn music, you will also be getting your work out.
4. You might be really good at it.
If you were under the impression that marching band is only for music majors, forget that idea immediately. Anyone who attends Mansfield University is welcome to join band so this is your chance!
5. You'll make so many friends.
Meeting people in band often time leads to unforgettable and irreplaceable friendships because music brings people together.
6. The exciting feeling before performing
If you're anything like me, you get super anxious and excited for any performance. Marching band is the same way except you can focus that energy into the music being played and your marching.
7. You will have a new view of what "on time" means.
The director will reinvent the idea of being on time; "To be early is to be on time, to be on time is to be late and to be late is unacceptable". Not only will this benefit you in band, this can help you be a more punctual person in other aspects of life.
8. No prior experience is needed
If you know how to play an instrument, but have never marched a day in your life, you will receive all necessary assistance to do so. When I first joined The Spirit and the Pride I had no experience in marching band and now I'm marching for my third year in a row.
9.You will be taught the technique.
As I mentioned earlier, since there are people who have never marched before joining the band, the techniques of marching are reviewed often. So if you haven't done marching band in a while and have doubts about your abilities, don't let that stand in your way.
10. The Nifty Uniforms
Everyone loves a man (or woman) in uniform, am I right? You will be fitted with your very own marching band uniform for the season and you will learn the art of wearing all its parts.
11. By the end of the season the director will remember your name
During band camp, it's common for the director to not have everyone's names down because there's only one of him and many band members, so give it time and you'll feel the satisfaction of him finally getting it right!
