The SHU marching band will open its ranks to future pioneers during its annual “Play with the Band Day” on Oct. 11. The event invites prospective student musicians to experience game day alongside the division I marching band, from warmups to in-game performances.
Upon checking in the morning of Oct. 11, participants will be given a SHU band T-shirt to wear for the game. The schedule includes getting the chance to take part in pregame traditions on the amphitheater steps and performing stand tunes and cheers with the band during the football game.
Source: Dan Passapera, Sacred Heart University
Keith Johnston, director of band and orchestra, said the event ties both music and academics to the SHU community.
“It has been a really popular event over the years and has been a great way for us to connect with high school kids who are looking at colleges and want to continue to play,” said Johnston. “This is a chance to combine both passions of continuing music as well as looking for a potential major to study through getting to know other SHU students.”
Student leaders will also teach participants the band’s march-up song and dance “Abunga.” Once at the field, guests will watch the band’s pre-game show before joining the ensemble in the stands.
“Our ‘Skull Session’ is a great pre-game ritual that we do that gets everyone pumped up before football games,” said Chris Escudero ‘25, a current graduate student and head of PR and marketing for the band and orchestra program. “It’s always a great turnout and Dr. Petillo is always in the crowd supporting the band.”
For current members, the day is an opportunity to welcome future Pioneers.
“I have been involved in these events since my freshman year, and I look forward to them all season long,” said senior Sean Manole, band vice president and flute section leader. “In my opinion, this is extremely beneficial for participants in that they gain a sense of meeting upperclassmen and are welcomed into the community.”
Junior Noah Held, mellophone section leader, said the band’s spirit is contagious.
“I feel like there is no band quite like ours,” said Held, “We bring so much energy to every game, and it washes over the group. As a prospective member, that feeling is like no other.”
Students from across many disciplines take on leadership roles in the ensemble. Practices are held on Monday and Thursday evenings, with Thursday nights dedicated to marching rehearsals and pre-game preparations.
“Everyone in the band is so driven; the majority of them aren’t even music majors,” Held said. “The band is open for everyone, and there are people who are ready and willing to help you every step of the way.”
“I know a couple of the girls in the band, and it’s been awesome seeing how dedicated they all are,” said sophomore Izzy Hygrell. “One of them is only a freshman and has already gotten some really cool opportunities through band, which is super inspiring.”
“We celebrate our triumphs and we mourn together whenever we have sorrows and challenges,” said Johnston. “When a student is looking at a college, they aren’t only looking at SHU. They’re saying, I can go and play with my friend, who I met at the ‘Play with the Band Day.’”
Family and friends are welcome at the game. Each registered participant can receive up to three complimentary football tickets. Registration closes 24 hours prior to the event, which begins at 10:00 a.m. on Oct. 11.
