A True Marching Virginian

If you were to ask an MV what it means to be a Marching Virginian, they would likely respond with the importance of working hard, compassion, friendship, and being a leader. Many of the MVs today absolutely love what they do, and there is a special phrase that our organization lives by today: Ut Prosim, meaning, That I May Serve, in Latin. This Latin phrase is the motto of Virginia Tech, and as representatives of our university, we strive to keep it in the hearts of each MV. One very special Marching Virginian, however, is the very definition of “That I May Serve,” and his name was Ryan “Stack” Clark. Ryan was a victim of the Virginia Tech shooting that took place on April 16, 2007. He was, and is, very special to our organization, and I had the honor of getting to meet and talk with his remarkable mom, Mrs. Letitie Clark. I was able to talk to her about what her son was like, why he decided to become an MV, and how we can remember him and keep him in our hearts. Many of the Marching Virginians today didn’t get the chance to get to know Stack and understand the impact he had on the band. I hope by writing this blog post today, Mrs. Clark and I can keep his memory and spirit alive.

Tell me about what your son; Where did he grow up? What was he like?

Hi, Stack! (ryanstackclark.org)

My son Ryan was born in Germany with his twin brother, because at the time we were a military family moving from place to place. Soon after we moved back to the United States, where my son grew up in Georgia. He’s a lot like his mom in how he loved perfection; he always strived to pay attention to the little details. He loved people, and he lived by the phrase, “I can help.” He always looked for ways to brighten someone else’s day, or make the world a better place. My son had the biggest heart, and the Marching Virginians and the Blacksburg community was his pride and joy.

Why did Ryan decide to become part of the Marching Virginians?

Well, since our family is from Georgia, we knew that it might be tough on our family having a child go out of state for school. When Ryan was starting to tour colleges in his senior year of high school, he went on a tour of Virginia Tech. Right when he arrived, he turned to me and said, “Mom, this is it,” he knew Virginia Tech would be his home. Ryan had been involved with marching band during high school, and he wanted to continue band in college. He was just so excited to come up to Blacksburg early for band camp, and he told me how nervous he was that he wouldn’t make it. He wanted to be a Marching Virginian so bad, and he would find out at midnight during band camp. He stayed up so late, waiting on the results of whether he would be accepted or not. Ryan read his name on the list of baritones that were new to the MVs, and he was just overjoyed. He was now a Marching Virginian.

Can you tell me about the day that he passed away?

Yes. Even though it was 17 years ago, it feels like yesterday to me. Although I’m now retired, I was a teacher at a local school near our home in Georgia. That morning I was already at work, and there was a television in our lounge where the news broadcasters had gotten information about something happening at Virginia Tech. As I was in the lounge with a couple of my coworkers, a couple members of the administration came in and said, referring to me, “Take her home, take her home now.” Nobody had told me what was going on, but in my heart I knew that something was very wrong. Our family had a plan in place for if there was ever an emergency, but I didn’t hear from my son. I had people at the house with me, and it felt as if hours had passed. Then there was a knock at the door, and there was a gentleman alongside a couple police officers standing on my doorstep. This gentleman was the coroner, and he told me that they had received word from the emergency room in Blacksburg, VA, and he said to me, “Ma’am, your son is gone.” From that moment on everything changed. This was the worst day of my life.

How can we remember Ryan and keep him in our hearts?

I think the way that you all have named your Hokie bird after him is beautifully touching, and I adore the way that others have told you all stories about him and taught the band about him. I hope we can remember not what happened to the 32 people that day, but who they were and their impact on this world.

Mrs. Clark told me that in the days following the shooting, she felt like she had gained 330 new family members; the Marching Virginians. She told me that they rallied around her, and their support and level of compassion was overwhelming in her time of grief. She has created a scholarship in memory of Ryan, called The Ryan “Stack” Clark Scholarship, where this organization hosts an annual 5K run that benefits the scholarship. I was absolutely honored to be able to interview such a warm, kind, and compassionate lady, and the Marching Virginians wish her all the best. We remember Ryan and the other 31 victims of that horrific day not by what happened to them, but the impact that they had on their loved ones and the people that they met. To each of the families who lost a loved one during the Virginia Tech shooting, the Virginia Tech community, and the Marching Virginians — We are Virginia Tech.

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“The Hokie Nation embraces our own and reaches out with open hearts and hands to those who offer their hearts and minds. We are strong, and brave, and innocent, and unafraid. We are better than we think and not quite what we want to be. We are alive to the imaginations and the possibilities. We will continue to invent the future through our blood and tears and through all our sadness. We are the Hokies.”

-Nikki Giovanni, Distinguished Emerita Professor and Poet

Ryan Clark. (ryanstackclark.org)

Goodbye to the Graduates: Outgoing Officers, 2023-2024

Within the next month and a half the officer team for the 2024 season of the Marching Virginians will be assembled. While the band collectively waits to see who their new officers are, some time is needed to say goodbye to the graduating members.

Lauren Chuderwicz — Executive Officer

From the trumpet section, a presence felt at every MV practice, game, and event, who has been one of the most dedicated MVs: Lauren Chuderwicz. Lauren has been the executive officer for the previous three years and graduates in May with an M.S. in computer engineering.

Calvin moore — drum major

This recent season was Calvin’s second run as drum major. Before this, he was a member of the sax section. Calvin graduates in May with an M.S. in aerospace engineering.

Jillian sasso — service officer

From the clarinet section, Jillian has organized many amazing service projects like the MV Blood Drive and a volunteer concert at Warm Hearth Village in her time as service officer. Jillian graduates in May with B.A.s in history and political science.

Sydney deitrich — operations officer

From the piccolo section, Sydney is graduating in May with a B.A. in sustainable biomaterials. With Sydney’s graduation, we unfortunately also have to say goodbye to everyone’s favorite dog: Pippin!

MAX KATES-TATE — OPERATIONS OFFICER

From the trombone section, Max is graduating in May with a B.S. in ocean engineering.

MAGGIE KIRK — INSTRUMENT SUPPLY OFFICER

From the horn section, Maggie graduates in May with a B.F.A. in creative technologies with a focus in animation.

BREANNA GOODE — Online content officer

From the piccolo section, Bre is responsible for many of the great videos on the MV Instagram. Bre is graduating in May with a B.S. in biomedical biology and is preparing for medical school applications.

While the band may not see everything they do, we know that the officer team is the reason that the MVs function so well. To all our graduating (and graduated) leadership, thank you for making our last season possible. Those of us left behind cannot wait to see what amazing feats you all do, and we all hope to see you at a football game this fall! 

From an Extreme Rookie to Leadership

Carter conducting at Hokies 4 The Hungry 2023! (MV Online Content)

I have been going to Virginia Tech football games my entire life; maroon and orange runs through my blood. I would sit by my Papa and Mama through the warm and sunny, rainy and windy, and whatever weather Blacksburg might bring us during the game. While I was always excited for every touchdown Virginia Tech made, I was more excited of the results of the touchdown — hearing the Marching Virginians play “Tech Triumph!”

I grew up begging my parents not to leave during halftime, saying “we can’t miss the band!” I knew that someday, I would be a dedicated marcher in high school, and furthermore, I would be a part of the Spirit of Tech. However, my dreams of participating in marching band were put on pause when I learned that I would have no high school marching band experience. My friends at other schools bragged about the community and all of the fun that they had at practice and making friends, practicing and rehearsing, and going to band competitions. My freshman year of high school, I remember going to the Virginia Tech football game and thinking “I will never be in that band; I will never be as good as them.”

Carter and Pix friends at dinner on the Military Bowl trip. (Rafael Garcia-Rodriguez)

Entering into my freshman year at Virginia Tech, I applied to the band and went to band camp to try out for the Marching Virginians. I cannot lie, it was overwhelming at first. To show up at a band camp with scores of freshmen sharing their high school experiences, talking about how incredible their high school bands were, terrified me. I thought I would not last. However, I did my best, I pushed to learn, and I worked as hard as I could to be the best marcher I could be. The leadership of the band was nothing but welcoming and encouraging. I remember one of my leaders in the piccolo section sharing with me that she had never marched before coming to Virginia Tech and she was impressed by the progress I was showing. I was determined to finish auditions as strong as I could whether I made the band or not. But let me tell you, to play Tech Triumph for my first time with the Marching Virginians was the most emotional experience I have ever had. I could not help but to cry. I had finally made it to the point I had dreamed about since elementary school. Whether or not I made the final cuts for the band, I finally had reached my goal.

Carter during band camp 2023. (MV Online Content)

Since then, I’ve surpassed that goal and have made it to my next goal, which was to become a member of MV leadership. Now, I am a piccolo rank captain.

I hope my story can be a testimony to what new members of the band can do, regardless of experience, and share what the Spirit of Tech is all about. The Marching Virginians is an organization that cares about community and service. I have made friends that I have gone through some amazing and terrible times with, and I know I can lean on them for anything. I have had some of my greatest memories of college in this band, whether it be at rehearsal laughing on the turf field, standing in the freezing and pouring rain, or jumping during “Enter Sandman” on Worsham Field in Lane Stadium. The Marching Virginians is an experience like no other.

If I could give any advice, tips, and tricks to any new member to the band, experienced or new to the world of marching, I would say you never know until you try. The Marching Virginians care about attitude, integrity, grit, and persistence. It is a matter of trying your best, listening to feedback, staying positive, and contributing as a member of the organization and the band. It takes work, but marching and adjusting to a different band arrangement is not hard if you put your time and effort into it. I now look back as a leader in the band to understand the incredible progress I have made, and how thankful I am to have people like Dr. Polly, Chad, and my section leadership who believed in me from the beginning, even as a new marcher.

There is nothing on this campus more incredible to be a part of than the Marching Virginians. It’s family, it’s support, it’s memories, and it truly is the foundation and the Spirit of Tech.

Giving Day Recap!

Virginia Tech’s annual Giving Day fired off at noon on February 21, and for the following 24 hours the many schools, departments, and groups ‘competed’ in raising funds. The inaugural Giving Day event occurred in 2018, where 4,300 donors raised an unbelievable 1.62 million dollars. Giving Day has continued every year, save for 2020, and each year the number of donors and total funding has skyrocketed even higher.

So, what happened on Giving Day 2024? A total of $13 million was raised, just over $3 million more than the previous year. This is the single greatest jump in funding between years. Similarly, there was a massive increase in donors: 18,900 from the 17,000 of the previous year.

These are certainly impressive numbers, but we all want to know is: How did the Marching Virginians do? The total fund numbers for the amount the MVs raised is unavailable. However, we can see the donor numbers!

This year, 521 friends of the MV family contributed on Giving Day. This is a remarkable number; 171 more than the previous year. Much of this was possible due to the efforts of our very own MVs who, over the 24 hours, reached out to friends, family, and alumni. On nearly all social media websites there were calls to support the MVs, by both current members and alumni.

Through the College of Architecture, Arts, and Design, the Marching Virginians sought to knock down several funding challenges. One, the aptly named ‘Spirit of Tech Challenge,’ asked the band to reach over 425 donors, which unlocked the Jim Sochinski Spirit of Tech Award. Jim Sochinski was the second director of the MVs (1976-1981) and arranged many beloved pieces for the band. The MVs were also the recipient of the Ambassador Donor Challenge, which was awarded to the group with the highest number of donors! 

For Giving Day, the Marching Virginians set up several giveaways. For those donors first in line, 10 MV swag items were given away. This included MV beanies, gameday baseball caps, or a bag of merch! After the first hour, drawings commenced for more item giveaways, most notably some retired MV uniforms. By the conclusion of Giving Day, 16 swag items and 9 uniforms were given to our amazing donors! The director of the MVs, Dr. Polly Middleton, posted a short video on the MV Facebook page thanking everyone who was a part of Giving Day 2024.

MVs4Lyfe is an expression the band uses to say that a person will always be an MV, even after their time in band. The display of gratitude seen on Giving Day shows that MVs4Lyfe is more than words we say, it is in the actions we take. Thank you to everyone who made Giving Day a success for the MVs. 

Unsung Heroes: A Look Into Pep Band

Hokies Pep Band supports the men’s basketball team. Source: Hokies Pep Band Instagram (@hokiespepband)

While we may be in our fifth week of the semester, it goes without saying that the absence of the Marching Virginians leaves the passing of time feeling a little slow. Without daily practices, the smiling faces of our fellow bandmates, and a 7 p.m. “deuces!” in our lives each evening, the spring semester definitely leaves some longing for the return of nights in Lane. For some students, though, the fun has just begun.

Nestled in the corner of Cassell Coliseum, basketball fans and guests alike can bear witness to the Hokies Pep Band. Boasting over 100 members, the band elevates each men’s basketball home game with its pride and true Hokie spirit. Keen listeners will notice songs both new and old, some borrowed from the Marching Virginians catalog and some learned specifically for the energy Cassell brings. It’s an experience that, if you can get into Cassell, you won’t want to miss.

“Pep Band takes the musical energy of an on-field band and trades some of the rigidity in favor of allowing the ensemble to take on its own personality,” said Andrew Stewart, four-year Hokies Pep Band member and MV Tone. When I reached out to him, he made sure to emphasize how the pep band has some serious funk. “The Pep Band has a certain looseness and swagger to it that you don’t get during the marching season. Not to mention we add some awesome guitar, bass, and drum set players!” 

The Hokies Pep Band takes the condensed setting of Cassell Coliseum and runs with it. Since there aren’t as many rowdy fans as Lane Stadium in Cassell, guests are able to interact with the sounds of the pep band on a much closer level.

“In both the wind and the rhythm section, people get to have a great time by playing with the intent to make people nod their heads and stomp their feet,” says Austin Wright, Marching Virginian Sax and bass player. “Pep Band is a group of students who care not just about playing their instruments, but being a part of the wonderful atmosphere in Cassell.”

Even with the hype of a packed crowd, the synergy of the pep band is truly off the charts. Listeners can thank seasoned director and Marching Virginian aficionado Chad Reep for that. 

“We still work hard in pep band, and we sound VERY good,” said Reep. “There are less horn moves, and more individualistic movement. So the students have a little more freedom in how they want to move. Musically, though, we are still very together and uniform.” Anyone in the immediate vicinity of all things Marching Virginians know that Chad expects nothing less from his esteemed students. 

In talking to each of the Pep Band members and Reep, however, I could tell how appreciative each were that the Pep Band exists. The group was seriously affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, a key point that was mentioned in both interviews with senior members. 

“I had the honor of joining [Pep] band in my freshman year in which we were in Cassell with maybe [one quarter] of the band in attendance for a game at a time,” Andrew said. “I’ve watched the band transform from a fairly empty stadium to performing on a national stage for the women’s NCAA tournament.”

Austin echoed the same sentiment: “My freshman year, the pep band essentially did not exist due to Covid…[we] had to be a much smaller unit.”

Now, however? It’s like night and day. The band is like a massive wall of sound cascading over the seats that ring Cassell Coliseum. Yet, to Reep, the motivation stays the same.

“Both Marching Band and Pep Band provide an amazing collegiate atmosphere for our college athletics, and even though they may be a little different, they are still a part of the same family. We are here to provide entertainment to the college crowds and support our Hokies!”

Catch the Hokie Pep Band on Monday, February 19th at their next home game as the men’s basketball team takes on in-state rival and 21st ranked Virginia at 7:00 p.m.

What Makes a Manager

A lot of time when a Hokie pictures the Marching Virginians, they see the big VT on our uniforms, or our awesome music in the stands or on the field. They might remember our music that we perform on the field, or the silly dances that we do in the stands. However, there is one section in particular that we would be lost without, and they are our managers!

The manager section doesn’t march with us on the field, but their job is to work behind the scenes to make sure everything is running smoothly. You may have to work a little harder to find one of our managers on game day since they’re always running around on a mission to help an MV. This week I got to interview a couple of the managers and their favorite head manager, Sarah-Faith! I was so happy to get to know them and get a glimpse into what it was like being a manager!

Sarah-Faith is the boss of the section, and her job is to oversee each job within the section. They are always ready to help someone in need, whether that be one of the MVs, a manager, or even Dr. Polly!

Hi, Sarah-Faith! Photo credit: MV Online Content

What are your jobs during a rehearsal at the MVC?

I try to keep everything from going absolutely haywire! A typical day for me includes setting out yard markers, water, unlocking things, sound system, and preparing for game day! On Fridays before game days, we do game day chats, where we make sure everything is in place for the next day. We also get to go on super secret missions during rehearsal for Dr. Polly, which is fun and often also involves food runs! What does a typical gameday look like for your section?

What does a typical game day look like for your section?

We get there 15-30 minutes before everyone else and the first order of business is to get the MVC field set up, load the golf carts, and start getting equipment down to Lane Stadium. I’m the one in charge of the golf cart (boss perks!), running back and forth from Lane Stadium while a couple other managers hold down the fort at the MVC!

Once we’ve made it to Lane Stadium for game day, we split up into our specific halftime groups and get prepared for halftime! We have two groups for plumes, and one for podiums, which rotate each game. At the beginning of the season, everyone gets put into a group with a designated group leader. These group leaders help facilitate things, while I choose which group I want to be in for halftime after making sure the others are all situated. 

After halftime, we finish the game and pack up the golf carts to go back to the MVC! We put everything away, sometimes have a team meeting, and then go home!

The thing that makes half time work is a comprehensive google document we have for each game. All the details and times for everything are on there, and we go over it each Friday before a game. By mid-season, game days are second nature. If anyone has any questions, they can consult the document, ask their group leader, then ask me! We work as a team that all want to help each other succeed. 

Why did you decide to become a manager? 

The first answer is that I didn’t make the saxophone section. I became a manager because I wanted to be involved in the band in any way I could. I had already met some really cool people during band camp that I wanted to continue to form relationships with. I kept coming back because I enjoyed the work I was doing. The managers that came in with me, Andrew and Brandon, are truly pinnacles of my college experience. I have learned a lot of communicable skills, such as organization, working under pressure, managing a lot of materials, etc., that I knew would carry me far as a person. I would make the same choice a thousand times over. 

Hi, Connor! Photo credit: MV Online Content

 One of the managers, Connor Stein, has absolutely loved being apart of the MV Manager section! Here are some of the questions I got to ask him about his time in the MVs.

What are your jobs during a rehearsal at the MVC? 

Before practice starts, we take care of setting up the field by putting out field markers, getting jugs of water filled and placed around the field, and setting up the sound for the directors to talk to the whole band for corrections and announcements! During practice, we are much more laid back since we do not have immediate duties, but we will help when needed. For example, we will run batteries up the tower if microphones die, we will help with small medical issues involving band-aids, headaches, etc., and head to various locations (like Lane Stadium, the uniform place, and the directors’ offices). We also help percussion when they transition from concert arcs to marching by getting their music stands off the field and back into the practice rooms. At the end of practice, we pick up everything we got out at the beginning of practice and close the gates to the practice field. 

What does a typical game day look like for your section? 

During game day, we will load various equipment onto the golf carts and drive them down to Lane Stadium, monitor bathrooms to ensure tailgaters do not go in, and stay at the practice field during rehearsal in case someone needs anything along with setting up the field like a usual practice. We also help with lunches by setting up the tables with food in an organized-ish fashion. When we do “March to Victory,” most of us will walk on the outside of the band and three-to-four of us will stay back to lock up the Marching Virginians Center (MVC). During games, we will be a cheer squad with goofy dances till halftime. We will help with distributing plumes and setting up the podium on the field. Nearing the end of the game, about three of us will head back to unlock the MVC for the band. Once the game ends, we will reload the golf carts and unload them at the MVC. 

Why did you decide to become a manager? 

I joined to get closer to my roommates with a common interest, and I ended up getting closer to, not only my roommates, but other people who I never would have met outside of the marching band. 

Hi, Alex! Photo credit: MV Online Content

The last (but certainly not least) of the managers that I got to interview this week is Alex Haynes!

What are your jobs during a rehearsal at the MVC?

We generally arrive 15 minutes earlier than the rest of the band each practice (typically 30 minutes earlier on game days) and leave about 15 minutes after the band leaves. All this time is used to unlock the MVC and the field, place field markers, water jugs, a second drum major podium if needed, and set up the mics for the drum majors and the directors. We usually assist drumline in carrying music stands off the field when the band sets up for drill.

During practice is always a good opportunity for us to complete tasks given by the directors, such as counting out swag for inventory and helping with H4TH!

 What does a typical game day look like in your section?

On game days, we split into two teams: the Lane team and the MVC team. The Lane team loads golf carts full of equipment, color guard poms, drum stands, and apples to go to Lane Stadium. The MVC team guards the tower and the bathrooms from non-MV affiliates. Once lunch is over and the band puts on uniforms to prepare for the march to victory, we march in pairs alongside the band. In the stadium, we sit behind the guard and we cheer alongside them. At halftime, we split into different roles. One role is in charge of the drum major podium, one is in charge of distributing apples and extra water, and two are in charge of distributing plumes. At the end of the game, we take everything back to the MVC in the golf carts, put everything away, and, win or lose, we call it a good game day.

Why did you decide to become a manager?

I decided to become a manager because, although I didn't get to perform on the field this season due to audition cuts, I still wanted to be part of the band and help out the MVs! The managers are just as much part of the band as any section and are just as important. I also use some of my free time to practice and keep my chops up to get ready for next season's auditions!

This week I was so excited to be able to interview and get to know the manager’s section a little bit better; they are the section that many forget to consider when they think of the band. We wouldn’t really be the MVs without our managers, though! They are the wind beneath our wings, and they work tirelessly to help each of the marchers become better each day.

Service in the Spring

The photos in this post document some of the ways the Marching Virginians have given service, both recent and long ago. Take some time to learn the impact the band has had and do your part to help others. 

VT Honor Band-a-Rama in Burress Hall

Credit - YouTube

House that the MVs built in memory of Stack

Credit - Town of Blacksburg

Performing for the Senior Center

Credit - Lauren Chuderewicz

In 1992 MV helped to build the Hand-In-Hand Playground for Blacksburg.

Credit - Town of Blacksburg

Hokies for the Hungry

Credit - Thomas Miller

For many MVs, the spring semester feels like a coin flip. No daily practices, no weekend games, and not seeing your friends every day is a new and unusual feeling for the members of the band. Yet the MVs are still brought together this semester by a core value: service. One of the most important aspects of the Marching Virginians is our commitment to service. In this blog post, we will detail an upcoming MV Service Project and advertise other projects around campus that MVs can do together!

Starting off is the chief MV Service Project: Blood Drive! On Tuesday April 23, from 11-5, the MVs will be hosting a blood drive in the GLC Multipurpose Room. For this event, there are two ways in which the MVs can help: 1) Sign up to be a volunteer at this event or 2) Donate Blood! As a volunteer at this event, you would help with sign-ins, setting up the room, and any other tasks the mobile Red Cross unit might need. If you plan to donate whole blood (standard blood donation), you are eligible if you have not donated in the previous 8 weeks, in good health, at least 16 years old, and weigh at least 110 lbs. Volunteering in either role, or even both, would be unbelievably helpful. Just recently, the Red Cross reported a 20-year low point for the number of donors and is facing an emergency blood shortage. 

Another service activity is The Big Event! The Big Event is an annual day of volunteering around the Blacksburg community as a way for the students of Virginia Tech to thank the town. Individuals come together as a team and are given an assignment in the nearby area. It is tradition within the band for sections, or ranks, to form their own teams. Registration for The Big Event is not open at this time, but you can start thinking about teams to make! More information can be found here: https://vtbigevent.org/ and here: https://engage.vt.edu/programs/bigevent.html. 

Outside of these great projects, there are many places to volunteer in the surrounding area. Virginia Tech maintains a list through their VT Engage website. ‘Habitat for Humanity,’ ‘Kids Can Write,’ and ‘Literacy Volunteers of the New River Valley’ are just a few of the non-VT programs described. This info can be found at: https://engage.vt.edu/about/opportunities-outside-vt-engage.html. 

Though we may not march and play in the spring, the Spirit of Tech is still a presence on campus. Doing our part to help others; to make another person’s day better. These are actions we can always take and are a key part of the band. From Hokies for the Hungry to The Big Event, the MVs value service year-round.

Greek Spotlight and Honor Band

KKY, TBS, and DO are the three Greek musical organizations offered at Virginia Tech. Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma are the National Honorary Band Service Fraternity and Sorority, respectively, while Delta Omicron is an International Music Fraternity. All of these organizations work to advance the field of music here at VT. 

Virginia Tech is home to the Zeta Omicron chapter of Tau Beta Sigma, founded here in 1979. Tau Beta Sigma runs familiar programming such as the Marching Virginians merchandise, Spirit Week, and assisting the School of Performing Arts during Moss Arts Center performances. They work jointly with the Eta Beta chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi, which facilitates instrument moves as well as other service events. To be in either organization, you must be enrolled in one semester of an ensemble here at Virginia Tech. 

Tau Beta Sigma after Third Degree (contributed by TBS)

These organizations hold students from all different majors and instruments, with their primary goal being to do service for the ensembles here in the School of Performing Arts. Due to them being joint brother and sister organizations, events such as the Marching Virginians Cookout and Honor Band are often facilitated by both. You can often find a member of either organization wearing Blue and White jerseys with their respective Greek letters on the front when doing events for the SOPA! 

Lastly, our department is home to the Gamma Mu chapter of Delta Omicron. Delta Omicron is the International Music Fraternity, whose purpose is to “promote and support excellence in music and musicianship.” Delta Omicron is comprised of outstanding music majors and minors here at VT. These students are intimately involved in the department outside of their academic hours; they work hard to promote the welfare of collegiate music programs and fortify the music educators of tomorrow. They can be found in purple jerseys with their Greek letters on the front!

Tau Beta Sigma and Kappa Kappa Psi at MV Band Camp (contributed by TBS)

Honor Band is an event for high school students in the greater Southwest Virginia area to come to our campus and perform in the Moss Arts Center. These students audition for band placement, and then come to Blacksburg to work on some amazing music with each other. It is a huge opportunity for high school students to get to interact with college musicians and see music as an opportunity for them in their future. The three organizations work hard to help facilitate Honor Band for the School of Performing Arts. 

Members of Tau Beta Sigma, Kappa Kappa Psi, and Delta Omicron do things from setting up chairs and stands, stuffing folders full of music, and working backstage to move instruments during the Honor Band performance. These students work hard to help the show function smoothly and are another positive representation of the School of Performing Arts. 

This year, we had 338 students signed up for Honor Band! It is truly amazing to see how many talented musicians want to come out and do the thing that bonds us all together: make music. We are so glad that all these students, teachers, and parents take time out of their busy schedules to come and have this amazing time together. 

Delta Omicron (contributed by DO)

Thank you Kappa Kappa Psi, Tau Beta Sigma, and Delta Omicron for all that you do!

Tau Beta Sigma President: Gracie Maslyn, vgmaslyn2025@vt.edu

Kappa Kappa Psi President: Daniel Gaete danielg02@vt.edu

Delta Omicron President: Ethan Bowser ebowser23@vt.edu 

Part 1: Let's Go Bowling! - VT vs Tulane

So, we didn’t actually go bowling — we got to go to a bowl game with the Hokies! Our super awesome football team, working tirelessly throughout this last football season, made it to the 2023-2024 Military Bowl in Annapolis, Maryland. Naturally, they needed the assistance of the Marching Virginians.

So, off we went on our journey to win the bowl game!

Two peas in a pod! Photo credit to Robert White.

Our trip began with buses throughout Virginia picking up MVs. Since many Hokies are on a much-deserved winter break, most of the band wasn’t in Blacksburg. Lots of arrangements were made in order for each of us to make it to Washington, D.C., where we would stay during our trip.

Some of us flew, some of us drove ourselves, and a lot of us rode the bus. Nevertheless, each of the MVs were ready to win the bowl game against Tulane.

Last rehearsal with the MVs. Photo credit to Robert White.

Before the busses got to the hotel, we made a pit stop at McLean High School in McLean, Virginia. Here the Marching Virginians had a super quick break for pizza, and then it was off to the field to do one more run of our halftime show.

We prepared an abbreviated version of one of our favorite shows, Metallica, for the bowl game. This was a show that we had already performed in Lane Stadium, so it was less stressful than having to learn a whole new one during finals season! We ran through a couple fun stand tunes, the music for the show, and then put the show on the field. After a couple announcements from Dr. Polly and Chad, we were back onto the buses to drive to our hotel in Washington, D.C.!

Once we reached the beautiful Washington Hilton hotel, the MVs ventured down to one of the conference rooms to pick up their super cool swag! After picking up our swag, we hopped into bed very early. We had quite a big day ahead of us!

read Part 2 by Seth Boehringer for more of our Bowl Game recap!

January 11 correction: the captions previously attributed the photos to MV Online Content. The attributions have been changed to Robert White.

Reflecting on the 50th Year of the Marching Virginians

Over the past month, I’ve done a lot of reflecting on my inaugural year in the Marching Virginians. It’s gone by all too quickly, but with the season has come new relationships, amazing experiences, and a family of more than 300 people who I’m so fortunate to share the field with. Much of my reflection has been through my own view, thinking about the memories that I’ve made with those in my saxophone section and how I’ve grown as a person because of them. Coming into Blacksburg with a grand total of two other freshmen band members from my high school, I was nervous that I wouldn’t find a place to call “home” within the band, but the section (and Rank 21!) truly transformed my experience with the MVs. Realistically, however, I am one of 330 strong. I am only able to absorb so much throughout game days and daily practices. Therefore, I had to ask myself a question: what was the season like for other Marching Virginians?

Assorted members of the band were gracious enough to respond when I reached out to ask if they could detail some of their most memorable moments throughout their seasons. Admittedly, I expected answers that were more surface level than anything, along the lines of “the practices” or “jumping to Enter Sandman” (which, let’s be realistic, is still very cool). What I wasn’t prepared for, however, was the profound emotional impact their responses had on my own perspective of what the MVs represent. 

VTUBAS performing and dancing to the Hokie Pokie, Source: Seth Boehringer

Senior clarinet and service officer Jillian Sasso sent me some of the most touching memories from her four years as a clarinet. A seasoned member of the band, Jillian had the opportunity to illustrate how her relationship with friend and clarinet rank captain Rachel Smith was so important to her: “I’ve always had someone else in the section french-braid my hair before games. Rachel Smith, one of the Net rank captains, is an excellent braider and a great friend of mine, so she always does my hair…this has been a really special bonding experience for us because we get to talk about things and appreciate each other very much.” Jillian also spoke on how her pre-practice frisbee group was a great way to stay active after a long day of classes. While it may seem small to someone outside of the band, she mentioned that it was a great way to bond with her section and that it’s one of the things that she’ll miss when she graduates. 

I was beyond excited when senior VTuba member Seth “Willy” Boehringer reached out to detail his memories on the classic tuba rendition of the Hokie Pokie. A staple after the first quarter, the Hokie Pokie is arguably one of the most important experiences any tuba has the chance to participate in. The VTubas lead the 66,000 raging Lane Stadium fans in the dance and song, supported by the rest of the Marching Virginians (VERY carefully) dancing on the bleachers in front of them. It’s one of the most fun season memories, said Willy: “It’s our favorite tradition, and seeing everyone have so much fun while dancing and playing makes me so happy.” Admittedly, I did tear up when I read the final line of his message: “In short, my favorite memory is watching my closest friends do something they love.”

It would be a disservice to reflect on the season the Marching Virginians have had without acknowledging the history that came with it. September 9th’s football game against Purdue, appropriately dubbed “The Rain Game,” was truly one for the ages. Those present at the game know just how unprecedented the day was: a weather delay, a near-cancellation, and almost 6 hours of confused loitering in the Beamer-Lawson Indoor Practice Facility later, the Marching Virginians represented their school with pride and strength.

A perspective inside Beamer-Lawson Indoor Practice Facility, Source: Kristin Rice

When sophomore and saxophone rank captain Alex Shupp reached out to me to discuss his perspective on the day, I was elated. He called the day, which left so many marchers and fans drenched, his favorite experience as a Marching Virginian thus far: “This might be a controversial pick, but my favorite memory with the Marching Virginians has to go to the September 9th rained out football game. It was the most hectic, stressful, and by far the longest day of the entire season. But for all its downsides, it cemented itself as a core representation of who the MVs are.” 

“Yeah, it was miserable, wet, and frustrating when the game got delayed. But the second the MVs huddled in the practice facility together, the band immediately started making the best of it…I wouldn’t have had that game play out any other way.”

So easy is it to fall into the idea that band is some kind of shift at a job, clocking in at 5:30 p.m. and leaving at 7:00 p.m. However, it is so much more than that. I quickly realized that some MV’s favorite experiences occurred outside of practice or even game days. Junior and marketing + communications officer Emy Delaporte spoke of how her most memorable moment from this season was her study sessions with fellow piccolos. “My favorite memories from this season are a series of late-night study sessions in Squires with pix players,” she mentioned. “The overlapping subject areas made for great homework help and the chatter was immaculate!”

Comparatively, freshman trumpet player Taj Davis spoke of how a casual movie hangout at senior trumpet Kerin Gorassi’s house set the tone for his season: “…One of the first real events we did was a movie night, planned by Kerin. It was a very nice way for any and all new members to meet the rest of the section in a non-professional scenario…[his planning] was very nice to see, and is probably why I and the many other freshman trumpets have such high respect for him!” 

It’s been one heck of a first season. Truthfully, I’m not sure any other season could really top what the band as a collective has done this year. Reading the memories of my fellow marchers made me realize how much of a good decision I made to take the leap and try out for the band. The experiences I’ve had this one season alone make me more and more excited for possible seasons to come, and as we close out this one with a bowl game, I’m ready to perform and make music with my new adoptive family of 330 strong. Cheers to the 50th year of the Marching Virginians!

Season of Memories!

As we arrive near the end of our 50th season, here are some behind the scenes shots of the wins and losses throughout the season! With one more home game coming up on November 18th against NC State, we are getting ready to send off our seniors to bigger, greater things. Take a look at the bonds and memories made throughout our year, and we hope to see you in November. Go Hokies!

Photo Credit: MV Online Content

Traditions of the Marching Virginians!

In a band as large as the Marching Virginians, sometimes it’s hard to meet everyone. Quickly working through sets, there’s only sparing moments to exchange a friendly ‘hi’ or ‘hello.’ During sectionals, everyone is focused on the music with little time to chat and you only talk to the people in your section. So while we are a hard-working band, not everyone gets a chance to know someone from outside their section. To get to know your band-mates better, Marching with the Virginians spoke with members from a few sections and learned about their traditions.

A beautiful garden of horns! Photo credit: Beau Wong.

The Saxes - Claudia Pack

“Before every game we pass around a ball-and-cup game. Every person has to try to get it in the cup otherwise it’s bad luck for the section. If everyone gets the ball in the cup then it means we’ll win the game. It’s fun because during lunch [before march to victory] everyone comes together to focus on one little fun activity. We all get really into it, especially so when people take 17 tries…like me!”

The Horns - Wyatt Dunbar

“Horn garden is where we place our horns up front in a line by Polly before game day motorcycles. We do it because it’s a nice show of respect to Polly, who was a horn player.”

Katelyn Hudack sporting pix glitter! Photo credit: Beau Wong.

The Pix - Callie Jansen

“One fun activity we have is glitter. A few years ago, the pix started putting glitter on and around the same time we noticed our sound really started to improve. We kept doing it, and for some reason we noticed that at games we forgot to wear glitter we lost. So, it became a mainstay: If we wear glitter we win! It sometimes gets everywhere, but it’s important within our section because we’re all doing the same thing. We all have it in common and we feel closer!”

The Tones - Sean Khoshkhou

“On game day we do Tone Donuts and Tone Planes. Another thing is Apron Tuesdays, which is our most noticeable tradition, and whenever the directors say “Tone!” we raise our tones above our heads! All of what we do is important to us because it gives us unity. Doing our own things, together as a section, makes us feel special, and so we feel we have our own niche within the band.”

Knowing another section, knowing what traditions they hold close, are important because you can understand what makes that section unique. Understanding how a section stands out and what gives it character hopefully helps you appreciate it a little bit more. If this is true, then the band must feel closer, and so it will be better overall!

After reading this, we hope you care about the person marching next to you just a little bit more; we all march through life together. Take some time out of your day to learn about another section, and if you can’t find time, there’s no need to worry! More traditions will be posted soon.

An Inside Look at Leadership

The Marching Virginians are composed of over 330 individuals; all of whom are dedicated to creating spectacular performances for the amazing fans of Virginia Tech football. Every MV works diligently to create the best show they can, and this would not be possible without the passionate leadership team that goes above and beyond every day. To find out more about what it means to be leadership, Marching with the Virginians sat down with a few members.

Reilly VanDyke, Colorguard, Captain

Source: MV Online Content

What is it like to balance leadership responsibilities with your own marching responsibilities?

“It’s not too difficult because we’re all doing the same thing…there is some difficulty though because we can’t learn outside of practice. So we need to make sure we’re doing things correctly.”

— Reilly VanDyke

What’s your favorite part of being in leadership?

“I just really like twirling my flag and helping others improve because it’s kind of like recess!”

— Reilly VanDyke

Jillian Sasso, Net, Service Officer

Source: MV Online Content

How has your experience in the MVs changed since becoming leadership?

“It’s a lot more behind the scenes, [as an officer] a lot of what we do is stuff the band probably doesn’t know about…so I now have a different perspective on how this huge organization is run.”

— Jillian Sasso

What inspired you to try out for leadership?

“In my high school, there were a lot of ideas I had on how to improve the band that I wasn’t able to do, and so when I came to the MVs I wanted to facilitate those changes, so that everyone has an amazing experience!” 
— Jillian Sasso

Amelia Kurowska, Colorguard, Rank Captain

Source: Jess Savage

Why did you want to do leadership?

“I wanted to be more involved in what goes on in the band, on the band’s activities so that guard can always feel included.”

— Amelia Kurowska

What is it like to balance leadership responsibilities with your own marching responsibilities?

“Sometimes it’s a bit harder to balance things when there’s a visual issue and you need to check that everyone is in the right place. Figuring out how people can improve is difficult…you can’t spin and fix things at the same time, so you have to step out, and you lose practice time then.”

— Amelia Kurowska

Kat Zinn, Colorguard, Rank Captain

Source: Jess Savage

What’s your favorite part of the job?

“I enjoy seeing the improvement through each show because sometimes you don’t notice just how great it looks until it’s on the field.”

— Kat Zinn

Do you find the responsibilities of leadership challenging?

“It depends on the year and show because some people may need more help and it depends on how much time you have.”

— Kat Zinn

Andrew Stewart, Tone, Section Leader

Source: MV Online Content

Why did you want to do leadership?

“I’ve been in leadership for the past three years, and I wanted to be in leadership because I love this organization and all the people in it. Being in the band has been an honor.”

— Andrew Stewart

What’s your favorite part about being in leadership?

“Personally, I would say my section. My section makes coming back for leadership worth it every single time” *Interviewer’s note: Andrew was smiling profusely*

— Andrew Stewart

Simply put, the members of leadership are those most dedicated MVs, who make sure every show is jaw-droppingly magnificent. The responsibilities and duties they have require them to put in so much work, but these passionate MVs do it because of their love for the band. The improvements made at each practice, the engagement with the community, and the overall spirit of the MVs are due to leadership. The band cannot thank this group enough for all that they do, so thank you leadership for being awesome!

Interview With the Boss

Hi, Dr. Polly! Source: MV Online Content

With any organization – whether that be a large corporation, a youth soccer team, or a college marching band – there are so many aspects that need to be considered in order for that organization to thrive. The Marching Virginians have incredible leadership and staff that work tirelessly in order for our band to succeed. This week I had the incredible opportunity to interview our director, Dr. Polly Middleton! 

As the director of the Marching Virginians, Dr. Polly oversees each and every component of the band, on and off the field. While interviewing her, I was able to get a glimpse into just what it is like to be in her shoes.

Can you tell me what it’s like to be the director of the MVs? Describe an average day.  

Well, today I answered lots and lots of emails! I spend a lot of time communicating with prospective students, university staff who want to plan game days, those who are interested in borrowing the MVC for organizations, and various other organizations. We needed to get our uniforms cleaned a couple days ago since we got stuck in a monstrous rain storm. I spoke with the dry cleaners after we had gotten them cleaned, and I put together a schedule for our upcoming exhibition! 

Besides directing the MVs, what other music organizations at Virginia Tech do you direct? 

I direct a class here at VT called Woodwind Methods, featuring instruments such as the flute, clarinet, and saxophone. In the spring I instruct a similar course, but this one features the oboe and bassoon. In both of these classes I see a lot of Music Education students, since it is required for their specific major.

Tell me about your very first day as the boss!

My very first day as director of the Marching Virginians was definitely very nerve-wracking, but I was just so excited. I was the assistant director years back, and so luckily I had already made relationships within the band. Being the director of a college marching band had been my dream ever since I was a freshman in college, and so being able to achieve this goal just meant so much. 

What was your motivation to become a marching band director? 

I had wanted to be a band director actually since the seventh grade, but not until I got to college did I decide that I wanted to be a director of an athletic band. I have always loved music, and while participating in marching band in college, I fell in love with marching as well. I just love the sense of community within a college marching band, and I wanted to continue that in my future. 

What is your educational background?

After graduating high school, I attended the University of Illinois and earned my Bachelor’s degree in Music Education. I then taught high school for four years, and then decided to go back to school. While back in school I attended Indiana University and earned my Master’s degree in Conducting. I then decided to continue my education and earn my Doctorate in Music Education from the University of Illinois.

Can you tell me about a favorite director, teacher or mentor that had an impact on you during your time in school? 

While I was attending Indiana University, I was a part of the Marching Hundred, under the direction of Dave Woodley. I admired his spirit and motivation to see each of us succeed. I also admire Dave McKee, and while he wasn’t my own instructor, I was able to learn so much from him as assistant director before he retired. 

Thanks for all you do, Dr. Polly! Source: Emily Saintsing

What motivates you as the director of not only the MVs, but of other music organizations at Virginia Tech? Why do you do it? 

My biggest motivation is the students. It is so rewarding to see students who love the band, take part in leadership positions, and make friends who love to march as much as they do. I absolutely love being a mentor to students and watching them grow as musicians, marchers, and people. I also enjoy keeping in touch with alumni after they’ve graduated, and seeing all of the amazing things they have accomplished after college.

Dr. Polly, our director, is such an amazing fit for the tremendous responsibility of being the director of the Marching Virginians. I absolutely loved being able to ask her why she does what she does and getting to learn about her inspiration for being the director of the MVs. Her spirit, determination and simply her love for music inspires each of us every single day.

"Day One" as a Newcomer

MVs were met by Elmo coming into band camp! Source: MV Online Content

To be a part of the Marching Virginians is no small accomplishment. Members of the Spirit of Tech underwent two grueling days of full-length band camp, where marchers returned to the Sochinski-McKee Marching Virginians Center on three separate occasions each day. Drill was learned, instruments were played, and relationships were formed. None of it was guaranteed - not until the clock struck 7:00 pm on August 15th. 

In the Marching Virginians, everyone is given the opportunity to audition for a spot. Everyone is judged equally, even returners; skill is analyzed as if a marcher has never set foot on the gorgeous turf field where MVs practice. This made for a very stressful first two days.

One of the many beautiful sunsets from the Sochinski-McKee Marching Virginians Center. Source: Benjamin Gozzi

For myself, I had the opportunity to audition for a spot within the MVSaxes. Over my first two days, I worked to not only demonstrate an understanding of marching band and music as a whole, but to also form positive first impressions with the wonderful cast of leadership in the sax section. As time flew by, and a nerve-wracking wait of nearly two hours passed, the member list was revealed. The time struck 7:00 pm, August 15th. 

In all honesty, I about floated back to the MVC. Those who I had formed close relationships with over the two days had all earned a spot in the band, and we wore grins the size of a 2-to-5 step on the way back to band camp. Once we had arrived, a gorgeous red-yellow sunset was the backdrop for pure excitement — meeting with our sections, we were divided into ranks, a foreign concept to both myself and many of my fellow rookies. As each member of our respective ranks were introduced, I distinctly remember each person roaring and clapping for each new member of the saxophone section. It was an experience that truly made me realize how much the Marching Virginians feels like family. 

A collection of saxophone members at the opening season game versus Old Dominion. Source: Benjamin Gozzi

The most profound moment of the evening, however, was not rank reveal, or the applause, or even the goodie bags my rank captain, Alex Shupp, gave us.

That moment was at the end of the night. There’s a tradition that, although short, perfectly represents the significance of the band itself - it truly makes you feel like you’re flying. On this night, I felt that way. An induction ceremony of sorts as practice concluded, it was beautiful — a musical way of lifting the stress of the previous 48 hours off of our shoulders.

Benjamin Gozzi’s first Elmo picture. Source: MV Online Content

As MVSax and newcomer Drew DiFilippo states, it was “like [we] could let [our] guard down and all the stress went away…everyone was in and I could become friends with everyone.” 

Drew articulates a sentiment I’m sure many newcomers can agree on - after all of the blood, sweat, and tears, we were officially a part of the 50th season of the Marching Virginians. I’ll be honest, I teared up.

The experiences I’ve now had since that moment, including many amazing practices, section nights, and spending one too many hours in the Beamer-Lawson Practice Facility in the pouring rain, have all been so worth it. I always reflect on “Day One” and feel so grateful to be in this band. I cannot wait to see what the future has in store!

MV for a Day 2023 - VT vs. ODU

Like many other Hokie fans across Virginia Tech’s campus and beyond, the Marching Virginians and hundreds of high schoolers welcomed the first game of the season with lots and lots of maroon! This past Saturday, September 2, was not only Virginia Tech’s first football game of the season, but it was also MV for a Day for the Marching Virginians! We had the tremendous opportunity of welcoming nearly 600 high school students to march alongside us in Lane Stadium.

Many of our members have fond memories of marching in high school, and some even attended MV for a Day themselves before becoming a member in college. Saturday was such a special day for each of us; all of the MVs just loved being able to march with all of the high schoolers!

The MV Drumline jumping to Enter Sandman. (Photo courtesy of Beau Wong)

1st Half

Our game started off to a promising start as the Hokies found themselves at 2-0 against Old Dominion. Into the second quarter, quarterback Grant Wells scored the first touchdown of the season with a 20 yard pass up the middle to wide receiver Jaylin Lane. After several plays, the score at halftime was 10 for ODU and 16 for Virginia Tech.

The MVs and high schoolers performing together during halftime. (Photo courtesy of Beau Wong)

Halftime

As our hardworking football team took their break, the Marching Virginians (and our high school friends!) took the stage — or, Worsham Field — during halftime. This past weekend the Marching Virginians put on our Superhero show, which consisted of well-known works from various film series. These included Avengers, Dr. Strange, Black Panther, and Loki. The MV’s performed music from Loki and Dr. Strange, and afterward our high school friends joined us to play music from Black Panther and Avengers. After our performance, we let the football team have their field back.

Touchdown! (Photo courtesy of Beau Wong)

2nd Half

Jumping back into the game, the each football team was hard at work trying to secure a win. Tech scored a touchdown early into the third quarter, with ODU scoring one soon after as well. ODU’s score became stagnant at 17 throughout the rest of the third and fourth quarter. Virginia Tech scored another touchdown, along with a couple field goals afterward. Virginia Tech won 36-17.

Stick around for upcoming posts from our blog! Hokie Nation is thrilled with such a great start to our football season, and the MVs cannot wait to march in Lane Stadium again in a few days! We would like to extend a HUGE thank you to all of our staff, leadership and high school band administration for all of their hard work and cooperation in making the MV for a Day go off without a hitch.

And, as always, go Hokies!

New Faces: The Rookies' Favorites!

With the new season of the Marching Virginians underway, everyone has been hard at work putting our upcoming show “Superhero” onto the field. For many members this is a bittersweet time as the start of their final year in the MVs, but this is also an exciting beginning for others: the rookies! Every year, the rookies must learn MV songs, marches, and traditions, and we wanted to find out what some rookies most enjoy about being in the Marching Virginians.

What’s your favorite part about being an MV?

Arnav Joshi, Civil Engineering, MV Tone. (photo credit to MV Online Content)

“The atmosphere is just really good, you make friends,” said Arnav Joshi, a rookie MV Tone. “You get to play good music, and you just get to have all around fun.”

“My high school band was a lot smaller, so I love the community,” said Claire Haagen, a MV Bone rookie. “Just having a really large band of a lot of people who genuinely love to be here and devote a lot of time to the MVs.”

Daniel Mwaura, Neuroscience, MV Trumpet. (photo credit to MV Online Content)

“My favorite part about being an MV is meeting a lot of cool people,” said Daniel Mwaura, a VTrumpet rookie. “Being able to meet every day, playing good music, and sounding good as a band is great.”

“I just love playing music and being around so many great musicians and putting on these shows and meeting so many people,” said James Martens, a VTrumpet rookie.

“It’s the sense of camaraderie”, said VTuba rookie Shaft. “It feels — especially [my] section, and the band as a whole — feels like a family, but it’s just a lot bigger.”

James Martens, undecided, VTrumpet. (photo credit to MV Online Content)

Going into our first game this Saturday, it seems that the rookies all have their own special slice of being an MV that they enjoy. Be it playing musical medleys, having a unique section bond or being surrounded by so many amazing people, being an MV is a truly special experience. We hope that the rookies of the 2023 season have a fantastic fall semester and love being in the MV family for years to come! After all, you’re not just an MV when at Virginia Tech; you’re MVs4lyfe!

Band Camp 50!

Welcome back, Marching Virginians and fans! We’ve missed seeing your smiling faces around the MVC these past few months. 

Band Camp flew by with field leadership, officers, rookies and returners working hard to get up to speed and get ready for our exciting 50th season ahead. Let’s hear what some of our MVs thought about the week!

Shawn “Ronald” Regalado, VTuba rookie. (photo credit to MV Online Content)

Was band camp what you expected?

“As someone who is coming from a small high school that had about forty-ish members, said VTubas rookie Shawn “Ronald” Regalado, “seeing the pace that we learn everything and the different cultures in each section and the sheer size of the band itself was a lot to take in. It really blew away my expectations going into band camp as a rookie.”

Carter Bohart, MVPix rank captain. (photo credit to MV Online Content)

How was your first week of leadership? 

“I enjoyed meeting all of the new band members and getting to work with them, [to] kind of hand down what I learned as an incoming member,” said new MVPix rank captain Carter Bohart. “[I enjoyed] giving them tips and tricks in the MV marching style and helping them become acclimated to the environment.”

What are you most looking forward to for the 50th season?

“I’m looking forward to bringing back some old shows that we used to march and just celebrating the accomplishments that this band has brought about in 50 years, being one of the youngest bands in the nation,” said Bohart.

Megan Mansfield, returning MV manager. (photo credit to Megan Mansfield)

What are you most looking forward to for the 50th season?

“The community,” said returning manager Megan Mansfield. “Now that I’ve met more people from last season and also [been] helping with uniforms, I know more people from almost every section. So now, the games, cookouts and going out with people, it’s going to be a lot more fun because it’s easier to make connections.”

All said, the MVs can’t wait for season 50 to really get started. Our first game is against ODU on September 2nd, and will be our annual MV for a Day event! This is a great opportunity for high schoolers to check out our program and see what collegiate marching is really like.

We’ll see you there!

Hokies Pep Band

When MV season comes to a close, many band members aren’t satisfied with performing awesome stand tunes and bringing energy to game day in just the fall. Lucky for them, there’s an amazing opportunity in store in the spring; the Hokies Pep Band!

A Synopsis of the Hokies Pep band

The Pep Band performing for March Madness (Source: HokieSports)

Under the direction of Marching Virginians assistant director Chad Reep, the Hokies Pep Band brings the excitement of an outdoor ensemble into Cassell Coliseum. The Pep Band, being roughly a third of the size of the Marching Virginians, includes all instruments of the outdoor ensemble and adds in guitars, basses, and a drum set. When the Pep Band gets to travel with out basketball teams, the band is even further reduced to about 30. As a vital part of the game day energy, the Pep Band coordinates with the Spirit Squad and the student section (formally referred to as the Cassell Guard) to make game day as exciting as possible!

ACC Tournament Run

The Pep Band had the opportunity to travel with the Hokies Men’s Basketball team to Greensboro, North Carolina to bring the hype to the ACC Tournament! The 11th seed Hokies played the 14th seed Notre Dame Fighting Irish in round one, and were able to secure a win with a final score of 67-64.

The Greensboro Coliseum Pep Band! (Source: Chad Reep)

In round two, the Hokies were faced with the 6th seed NC State Wolfpack and faced a tough loss with a final score of 77-97. Despite the disheartening performance, the Pep Band still got to spend some quality time together and had a great time!

Women’s NCAA Tournament Run

The Hokie Women’s Basketball team had a record breaking run in March Madness, reaching the first program Elite Eight and Final Four, and the Pep Band had the opportunity to travel with them along this historic journey!

Our March Madness Pep Band! (Source: Chad Reep)

Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight — Seattle, WAshington

The Pep Band crowds Chad’s room to ensure they sound the best they can! (Source: Chad Reed)

The Pep Band arrived in Seattle, Washington and had a couple of days to explore the city! Many groups visited some one Seattle’s famous sites: the Space Needle, the Pike Place Market, and the aquarium, just to name a few! Of course, since our Pep Band members are still students, many found places to study across the city, especially at the Seattle Public Library. Leading up to the game, with no other place to rehearse within the hotel, the dedicated Pep Band swarmed to Chad’s room to read/sing through their music!

The Hokies move on! (Source: HokieSports)

On the team’s first Sweet Sixteen appearance since 1999, the Hokies faced 4th seed Tennessee, who were predicted to be evenly matched. After a close game, the Hokies were able to pull away with a final score of 73-64, and moved on to the program’s first Elite Eight!

Forward #13 Taylor Soule, the Pep Band’s biggest fan! (Source: Tech Sideline)

Facing the Hokies in our historic Elite Eight appearance was 3rd seed Ohio State. Proving to be yet another stressful game, the Hokies were once again able to pull away from the Buckeye’s notorious full court press and put up a final score of 84-74. Hurriedly, the Hokies packed their bags and prepared for an early flight to Dallas, Texas for our first ever Final Four!

Final Four — Dallas, Texas

Upon landing, the team was greeted by a small photo op at the airport! Once in the city, the Pep Band once again had the opportunity to explore the city a bit, with many flocking to local TexMex and barbecue restaurants! A handful of Pep Band members even decided to buy cowboy hats to celebrate the occasion!

Now THAT’S a trombone section! (Source: HokieSports)

The Hokies were facing another 3rd seed, LSU, with odds favoring the Tigers. After putting up a fight and gaining a double digit lead, the Hokies couldn’t hold on to the championship appearance, and fell to the Tigers in a 72-79 loss. With much to be proud of, the Hokies flew back home to Blacksburg with their heads held high!

Old Friends, New Memories

For a lot of people, lifelong friendships are made in the Marching Virginians. Whether it’s section bonding time or just striking up a conversation at the MVC, countless relationships begin with marching band. For some other people, these relationships start even earlier than college. A lot of our wonderful MVs came from high school band together, spending eight years doing what they love with the same people. We wanted to highlight these special relationships and commemorate all the years we have spent together making music.

Millbrook High School

Xander Hromiak ‘20, Hayden Gormas ‘21

Xander and Hayden both come from our lovely horn section here in the MVs. They hail from Winchester, VA, both a part of the Millbrook High School Marching Band. Their favorite memory from high school band is “the anticipation of the triple double crunchwrap supreme”.

Hickory High School

Gracie Maslyn '21, Thomas Chase '21, Cole Sawyer '20

Next we travel to Virginia Beach, where we meet Gracie Maslyn, Cole Sawyer, and Thomas Chase, all former members of the Hickory High School Marching Band. This band had a lot of fun with each other, with their favorite memories being going to Band of America Regionals at Liberty University, playing awesome games at band camp, and all the fun memories traveling with each other.

King George High School

Jacob Banerjee ‘19, Jonathan Amorino ‘22

Jacob and Jonathan, both members of the trombone section, have been marching together since their days at King George High School, in King George, VA. While their most memorable moment is the loss of their Senior Night football game, they have had many moments of fun with each other, especially since joining the Marching Virginians.

Grafton High School

Julia Darden ‘21 Jackson Kirsch ‘21, Ax Phan ‘20, Trey Kalil ‘20, Carrie Frecker ‘19, Calvin Moore ‘19, Jackson Davies ‘19, Tim Asher ‘19, Meadow Dawes ‘22

Next up is a gigantic and memorable group of Marching Virginians from Grafton High School, in Yorktown, VA. 9 of our MVs have been marching together for years, but not always successfully. Their favorite memory from HS was when Trey Kalil fell down in the middle of a competition, but got right back up and began marching in step on beat. It was so memorable that the video of the recording has lived long after all of them graduated.

Clarke County High School

John Kizer ‘20, Claire Holmes ‘19, Olivia Holmes ‘21, Charles Casey ‘21, Nico Ottobre ‘22, Nate Blackwell ‘22

All of these MVs hail from Clarke County High School, in Berryville, VA. They were all in the band together in 2018, and that year had a vampire themed show. One of Nate’s favorite memories that year was getting to march at championships with his arm in a brace because he broke my arm at band camp! He says “It was really cool to march with all of my friends even when I had to march with a concert horn!”

Charlottesville High School

Tommy Fruscello ‘22, Talia Moore ‘22, Claire Wildermann ‘22

Coming from a small high school, these three MVs from Charlottesville High School were very close before coming to Virginia Tech. According to them, Charlottesville High School’s band had bonds that superseded the section divide. All sections shared a lot of memories playing with each other through their tenure in band.

Pulaski County High School

Alex Haynes '22, Charlie “Kachow” Buchinsky '19

Coming closer to home, Alex and Charlie marched together at Pulaski County High School in Dublin, VA. They were able to share so many fun memories together, most notably traveling to All District and All State band.

Dominion High School

Isabel Hasson '19, Gillian Murphy '19, Alex Rutkowski '22, Myles Phillips '18, Aaron George '19, Kristin Rice '20, Samantha Frietchen '19

Lastly, we have an unforgettable group of MVs from Northern VA. The seven of them hail from Dominion High School, in Sterling VA. A fond memory they have from high school was getting to participate in Parade of Champions in 2017, as well as getting first place at a competition in 2018!!

These are just some of the bonds that were able to be strengthened through spending time in the MVs. It is so special to be able to know someone for upwards of eight years! The MVs is truly a place for lifelong friendships.