Pride of the Southland Band
History
The Pride of the Southland Band is the official marching band of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. The band was founded in 1869 and has since grown to become one of the most recognized university marching bands in the United States. The band's name, "Pride of the Southland," was bestowed upon it by the university's students, faculty, and staff in recognition of its outstanding performances and dedication to the university.
The band's history is steeped in tradition, with many of its practices and performances dating back to its early years. For instance, the band continues to perform the "Circle Drill," a complex marching formation that was first performed in the 1950s. The band also performs the "Salute to the Hill," a tradition that began in the 1960s where the band forms a giant "T" and marches towards Ayres Hall, the university's iconic bell tower.
Membership and Organization
The Pride of the Southland Band is composed of approximately 330 members, including brass, woodwind, and percussion musicians, as well as majorettes, color guard, and feature twirlers. The band is led by a director, who is assisted by several associate and assistant directors. The band also has a number of student leaders, including drum majors and section leaders.
Members of the band are drawn from a wide range of academic disciplines and represent nearly every college within the university. Despite the diverse backgrounds of its members, the band is united by a shared love of music and a commitment to excellence in performance.
Performances
The Pride of the Southland Band performs at all home football games and travels to select away games each season. The band's pre-game and halftime shows are a highlight of the university's football games, featuring a mix of traditional and contemporary music.
In addition to its performances at football games, the band also performs at a variety of other events throughout the year. These include university ceremonies, community events, and marching band competitions. The band has also performed at several notable events, including presidential inaugurations and the Tournament of Roses Parade.
Musical Repertoire
The band's musical repertoire is diverse, encompassing a range of styles from classical to contemporary pop. However, the band is perhaps best known for its performances of the university's fight songs, including "Rocky Top," "Down the Field," and "Fight Vols Fight."
The band's performances are characterized by their precision, energy, and musicality. The band's arrangements are often complex and challenging, requiring a high level of musicianship from its members.
Legacy and Impact
The Pride of the Southland Band has made a significant impact on the University of Tennessee and the broader community. The band's performances have become a cherished tradition at the university, contributing to the school's spirit and identity.
The band has also made a significant contribution to the field of marching band performance. Its innovative marching formations and musical arrangements have influenced other marching bands across the country.