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!

The Rain Game - VT vs. Purdue

Makenzie Perks, Net, showing MV Spirit During the Marching to Victory; Photo Credit: Macey Early

On Saturday, September 9, the Marching Virginians started their day just like any other game — running the show, taking a break to eat, suiting up, and marching to Lane Stadium. But soon, this day would become anything but a regular football game. 

About 30 minutes prior to kickoff, Lane Stadium was evacuated due to inclement weather, so the fans and the MVs took shelter underneath the concrete. During this time, many MVs found themselves surrounded by students and fans of both Virginia Tech and Purdue, who all told us how great the band was and how much they appreciate us being at the game! This kept our spirits up, and we headed back into Lane Stadium ready for kickoff!

The trombones performing one of their spectacular routines; Photo Credit: Andrew Single

As soon as the game was underway, all those in attendance were sure of one thing: these teams were bringing their A-game. The Boilermakers exploded onto the field and secured a touchdown less than four minutes after kickoff. The Hokies were sure to turn things around when the game was delayed again due to torrential rain and lightning. Due to the wonderful help of the managers, senior staff assistants, and leadership, the band had their raincoats on and all belongings secured in no time. Together, the MVs headed into the Beamer-Lawson Indoor Practice Facility to wait out the rain. 

Despite the circumstances, the spirit of the band was not diminished. Many marchers took the time to visit other sections and meet someone new. Others passed the time by singing or dancing, and some alumni even stopped by for a bit. Eventually, the game was rescheduled for kickoff at 6:15, and so the band returned to the Marching Virginians Center, excited to see the Hokies finish the brawl with Purdue.

A group of trumpets show how awesome it is to be back at the game, plus they found a feathered friend; Photo Credit: Andrew Single

Finally, nearly 6 hours after its initial kickoff time, the game was in full swing. With 6 minutes left in the second quarter, quarterback Grant Wells made a quick pass to Bhayshul Tuten who made a 30-yard dash down the sideline, and despite being tackled at the very end, scored a touchdown for Virginia Tech. With three minutes left in the first half, the Hokies took a field goal attempt. Kicker John Love made a career-high 41-yard field goal, bringing the Hokies to 10 versus Purdue 17. As the first half came to a close, Grants Wells received a snap and made a 10-yard pass to wide receiver Jaylin Lane. The game was now neck-and-neck!

Maren Stokes, Colorguard, cheers on the team to victory; Photo Credit: Jess Savage

Flooding the field with fury, neither team let up a single point during the third quarter with one highlight being a 39-yard gain from a pass by Wells to wide receiver Stephen Gosnell. As the Hokies intensified their offense in the fourth quarter, Purdue scored another touchdown from a series of long runs, making the score 24-17. With 6 minutes left, the Hokies were able to tackle Purdue quarterback Hudson Card during a QB power play and stopped the drive. Putting in a last bit of energy, backup quarterback Kyron Drones was put into play and Tech made a quick snap resulting in a 26-yard gain. Despite the ferocity displayed by the Virginia Tech Hokies, the final score was 24-17, Purdue wins. 

The Hokie spirit displayed during this game is something to marvel at. Fighting against the forces of nature, the football team grappled for victory at every minute of the game, and fans and the band alike all witnessed the team’s determination to the very end.

On Saturday, September 16, Virginia Tech faces off against Rutgers at the SHI Stadium in Piscataway, NJ.

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!