New Look, Same Pep: A Glimpse Into the Hokies Pep Band for the 2024-2025 Season

With winter approaching and the college football season coming to an end, the Hokies Pep Band has taken to Cassell Coliseum to get fans excited for the men’s basketball season at Virginia Tech.

Photo courtesy of Evan Bainer.

Like it does every year, the Hokies Pep Band has returned to Cassell to cheer on the men’s basketball team for the 2024-2025 season. The band, known for its relaxed vibe and great sound, has been an integral part of creating a fun and energetic atmosphere within the coliseum.

However, the band will have a new look this season, as it has relocated to sections closer to the court in order to have a greater effect on the game atmosphere. This change came after ongoing discussion between Chad Reep, the director of the Hokies Pep Band, and the Virginia Tech athletics department. Prior to this season, the band was located up towards the back of the coliseum and was adjacent to the student section. With a view looking down onto the court, the band would project its sound across the entirety of the stadium rather than just to the court itself.

The initial move was down directly in front of where the band previously was, which also put part of the band directly across the court from the opponent sideline, allowing the sound to travel directly towards the opposing team during the game.

However, after Virginia Tech’s first trio of home games, the band was relocated to within the student section for the matchup against Jacksonville University. Now, the ensemble is located at the front of the section with a head-on view of the court. With the new seating came a plethora of opportunities for the band to be featured not only on the screen in Cassell, but also on TV on channels such as the ACC Network. 

Photo courtesy of Evan Bainer.

The new seating arrangements have also allowed the band to be more immersed in the student atmosphere. As the band and the students regularly do their in-game cheers and traditions, being closer to the student section has allowed the band to create a beneficial impact on the game for the Hokies. Brody Semones, an alto saxophone in the band, added to this sentiment as he spoke positively about the new seats.

“I think [the new setup] is great,” said Semones. “It gives us an opportunity to engage more in the game and with the other spectators, and it also makes our presence more known.”

As Virginia Tech’s season continues, the band will stay in its new section for the foreseeable future. Regardless of where the band is, however, Reep noted the overall importance of the ensemble supporting the basketball team.

“Our job is to be the biggest fans and to play great music,” Reep said to the band. 

Whether it’s through chanting “Let’s go Hokies” or playing Tech Triumph, the Hokies Pep Band will continue its support of the basketball program here at Virginia Tech this season as it cheers on the men’s team in Cassell Coliseum. Now that it is within the student section, the band will look to be even more energetic and supportive for the Hokies.

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Aranjuez Across the Ages

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“Concierto de Aranjuez,” by Joaquín Rodrigo, was originally written as a guitar piece. The song has been played by guitarists in solos as well as in orchestral arrangements, as well as by the Marching Virginians as one of our hits throughout the decades! Like many Jim Sochinski arrangements, “Aranjuez” has been a favorite to perform by the Marching Virginians. 

The 51st Edition of the Marching Virginians alone has performed this piece several times. The first was as a part of its 50th Anniversary Show and MV Alumni Day at the Marshall game. Furthermore, the piece was shared with high school students performing at exhibitions at Christiansburg, Riverbend and North Stafford high schools. 

This blog, with interviews from MV alumni and a current MV, highlights some of the ways that this piece has impacted every alumni and current members of the band throughout the decades.

The 1986 Edition of the Marching Virginians

I have had the honor of working with it each time it has come back and watched it become the tradition it is today.  It means a lot that it connects with so many iterations of Marching Virginians.

Lisa VanDyke (Guard, 1985-1990)

The Marching Virginians is where Lise VanDyke found her husband of 34 years and instilled the love for color guard in her daughter, current MV Reilly VanDyke. While an office space designer in North Carolina, she could not stay away from the Marching Virginians for long post-graduation. She is one of the instructors for the Marching Virginians color guard, and we see her during band camp and at every Virginia Tech home football game.

VanDyke described the 1986 Edition of the Marching Virginians as extremely new, but the same feel as today with old traditions continuing to be valued while new traditions were always being formed. She shared that her favorite memory will always remember the 1986 season as the season where she met her future husband, Chuck VanDyke (snare), and where the Hokies won the Peach Bowl!

VanDyke was in a performance of “Aranjuez” during her second season in the Marching Virginians. She shared that the show is unlike any other, fun choreography that is “dancy and fun” with poses that the colorguard does not get to do in a typical show. 

VanDyke earned her B.A. in housing, interior design and resource management from Virginia Tech. 

The 2017 Edition of the Marching Virginians

One of the most unique and special things about the MVs is how we can bring a concert band sound to a marching band, and I think Aranjuez showcases the very best of that in a way that's totally unique to us. I hope every MV gets a chance to perform it at least once.

Kent McDonough (Trumpet, 2016-2020)

Kent McDonough remembers 2017 as the last year that Dave McKee directed the Marching Virginians, and the organization welcomed Chad Reep in as the new assistant director. He shared the environment was exciting, with lots of reflection on the progress made during the band’s tenure,

Kent’s favorite part of “Aranjuez,” like any Trumpet player would share, would be rowing in the floating set, as if they were in canoes. Kent shared their section shirt highlighting they were the “Aranjuez Rowing Team.”

Kent McDonough is a two-time Hokie, earning his B.S. and M.S. in computer science, and is now living in Washington D.C. with his partner (and fellow former MV) Karen and their dog Libbi. 

The 2020 Edition of the Marching Virginians

It is really special that the MVs still continue to march and play Aranjuez because it has been such a fun song for many different  generations of MVs to play.

Lauren Chuderwicz (Trumpet, 2019-2024)

She played in the COVID edition of the marching band, playing “Aranjuez” as a part of their performance repertoire for the year. Lauren shared that while challenged by COVID, she was impressed by the enthusiasm and the energy everyone brought to these modified and unusual rehearsals and performances.

Lauren shares her favorite part of “Aranjuez” is the Trumpet row, which you can see in the regular marching show where the Trumpets along the East sidelines row towards the end zones as they march to their dots!

Lauren Chuderwicz is a two-time Hokie, earning her B.S. and M.Eng. in Computer Engineering,and is now working on Radar Planes with Northop Grumman.

The 2022 Edition of the Marching Virginians

Just about each edition has played countless pieces arranged or written by James Sochinski, including Aranjuez… No matter how different the band looks or feels today versus however many decades ago, the music that flows through our veins has the same roots, and continuing to honor that and play these pieces is the glue that sticks the generations together.

Audrey Jones (Piccolo, 2019-2023)

She shared that while tiring, the 2022 Edition was energetic, even with so many early kick off times. She shared the MVs were hyped up and ready to cheer on the team through every game.

Audrey shares that “Aranjuez” is an intense piece, a fun song that locks in and brings the intensity that a marching band wants to bring to its audience.

“Each edition of the band has different inside jokes and memes. But just about each edition has played Tech Triumph, the Hokie Pokie, and countless other pieces arranged or written by James Sochinski, including Aranjuez… No matter how different the band looks or feels today versus however many decades ago, the music that flows through our veins has the same roots, and continuing to honor that and play these pieces is the glue that sticks the generations together.”

Audrey Jones graduated with her B.S. in Fish Conservation, and she now lives in Idaho doing aquaculture and fish farming research. 

The 2024 Edition of the Marching Virginians

The MV family has an unbreakable bond and having that show as a connection is one more reason to feel so connected to the other alumni.

Gracie Maslyn (Clarinet, 2021-2024)

She shared that the 2024 Edition is very special, with the level of performance and professionalism on the field being incomparable to previous seasons. Her description of Aranjuez highlights the blend between several instruments, and the interest that it brings to the listener in each performance.

Gracie shares her favorite part of the “Aranjuez” performance was the amount of times the 2024 Edition performed it this season, as well as the amount of effort and work the band has put in to make the show as amazing as it can be every single performance.

Gracie Maslyn will graduate this semester with her B.A. in Human Development.

The Legacy of Jim Sochinski

Jim Sochinski’s time in the Marching Virginians is remarkable, and has been felt by members during his tenure at Virginia Tech up to students who never had the privilege to meet him. His arrangements, whether it be Tech Triumph or Aranjuez, still sits as the foundation of the Marching Virginians.

To Lauren Chuderwicz, continuing to play pieces such as Aranjuez means remembering the foundation and the traditions of the Marching Virginians. “It was an honor to play his arrangements and pay tribute to someone who impacted so many in our program.”

To many, “Aranjuez” is a story of many things, including the legacy in which the Marching Virginians pride themselves in, the history of those who put their time and effort on the field, and a reminder that even with change, the foundation of such an incredible organization continues with the band.

NOTE: We’re looking for recollections of the oldest “Aranjuez” performance! If you marched in that first show, we want to hear from YOU! Let us know at mv.mco.1974@gmail.com.

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Changing the game: How one rank has redefined togetherness

In a band as large as the Marching Virginians, it can often be difficult to make connections outside of one’s own section. While 330 proud members make up the core of the MVs, so much of what is done both at daily practice at the Marching Virginians Center and on gamedays in Lane Stadium is completed within individual groups. This leads to the deepening of relationships within a unit, of course, but can often lead to feelings of disconnectedness between other groups of musicians.  

However, in a unique twist of events for the 50th anniversary season, members of the band’s piccolo section were provided with an opportunity to squash the narrative of section exclusivity. After accepting 16 members into this year’s unit, it was apparent that outside assistance would be needed so that dots on the field could be filled for halftime performances. Under the design of directors Dr. Polly Middleton and Chad Reep, a plan was created: Have a select number of marchers from the largest sections, such as the 65-person trumpet and 44-person saxophone groups, march in permanent piccolo spots for the 2024 season.  

In all aspects except marching, it would be business as usual for the select contingents of marchers from the largest sections. Music would still be rehearsed with their own sections and members would still have an in-section rank to call home. When setting drill for halftime performances, however, rank captains in the piccolo section would disperse marching dots to their piccolo rank members, but also to the members of other sections that joined them on the field.  

When the idea was first introduced, piccolo rank captain Caroline Martin was open to the new change. A third-year environmental science major, Martin was excited to see what the adjustment would bring to a section that has normally seen outside marchers in rotations instead of in permanent spots.

“In past years, the piccolo section would have members of other sections march a spot with us, but unlike this year, it was someone different each time,” Martin told me. “It was always a bit awkward as you didn’t know each other but would be standing a couple feet apart for the next few weeks [when learning a show].” 

Through three months this season, Martin described how her experience as a rank captain of what soon became known as “ghost ranks” has changed her perspective on band as a whole.  

“Getting to interact with more sections within the band has let me meet so many new people,” said Martin. “I find that it’s made us work together as a band.” 

For the members of Martin’s Rank 5, the change originally received mixed reactions. For alto saxophone Shaun Saunders, being told that he would be marching away from his section was a change he wasn’t expecting. 

“When I was told I would be marching a piccolo spot this year, I initially felt a little down,” said the second-year civil engineering major. Reflecting on his time this season, though, he felt nothing but gratitude for the experience he’s had with the piccolo section.  

“Marching a piccolo spot for every show this year allowed me to meet lots of new people, in which I have created many long-lasting friendships,” stated Saunders. “Their section has been so welcoming and wonderful. I love them all and wouldn’t trade them for the world.” 

Shaun’s sentiment was shared by fellow sophomore tenor saxophone Evan Bainer. “It’s been especially great just because of the piccolo section being so nice and open to us new members to where we feel like we’re a part of their section. It feels like I’m in two sections: the saxophones and the piccolos.” 

For tenor saxophone and saxophone section leader Claudia Pack, her appreciation comes from a place of leadership. Now in their second consecutive year as a section leader, marching a piccolo spot has given more than just new relationships. 

“I know more people and feel more confident providing feedback to different sections when it comes to marching,” said the junior aerospace engineering major. “I marched a piccolo spot last year and twice my freshman year and I love it every time.”  

Members of the Marching Virginians may not have the chance to meet other section members quite the way in which Rank 5 has, but Martin’s mix of saxophones and piccolos took the chance and ran with it. While Dr. Polly’s change may not be a permanent one, Rank 5 is just one of many reasons why the 50th anniversary of the Marching Virginians is so special.  

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H4TH: VT v. Clemson

Hokies 4 the Hungry (H4TH) is a combined effort with the Montgomery County Christmas Store to provide meals and discounted gifts for those in need during the holidays. It is a tradition that the MVs have supported for several years and is one that many members of the band look forward to participating in. Events include a week-long interband competition with bonus point items, and “canned bean” deduction points to harm other sections in the competition.

On gameday, the band disperses to tailgates to collect more cans and raise funds for the store to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, and toys for their discounted Christmas store. It is a lot of fun for members of the band, but it is even more important to be supporting such a great cause in our community!

The Golden Knights Precision Parachute Team! (photo courtesy of Andrew Single)

First Half

The first quarter resulted in a tied score of 0-0, with both the Clemson Tigers and Virginia Tech Hokies showing off their strong defense. The excitement came when Clemson went for a field goal. Hokie’s Keyshawn Burgos blocked the kick, and Quentin Reddish recovered the ball, rushing it 77 yards for the first touchdown of the game! This ended the first half 0-7.

Halftime

This week’s show was Dark Disney, highlighting Villainous themes from several Disney classics, including “Hellfire” from The Hunchback of Notre Dame, “Anthem of Evil” from Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, “Breath of Life” by Florence & the Machine (written for Snow White and the Huntsman), and ended the show with the main theme from The Pirates of the Caribbean, written by Hans Zimmer. The show was full of several moving shapes and lines, creating impactful images on the field. As always, it was another amazing performance in Lane Stadium full of cheers and excitement as the fans’ favorite themes from Disney classics were shared.

Roaming pep bands! (photo courtesy of Andrew Single)

Second Half

The second half was not as hopeful for the Hokies, as Clemson scored two touchdowns and held the Virginia Tech offense from any attempts at earning any points before the end of the third quarter. After the small break, Clemson pushed the Virginia Tech defense down the field again to score their last touchdown of the game. The Virginia Tech Defense still pushed to keep Clemson from running all the way down the field, however Clemson made their last advances with a final successful field goal attempt. However, the Hokies were not done. With Virginia Tech quarterback, Collin Schlee, making his debut during the second half, he threw a 14 yard pass to Ayden Greene, adding one last touchdown for the Hokies within the last few minutes of the fourth quarter. The game ended with a Clemson victory, 24-14.

Although the Virginia Tech Hokies were not able to clutch a victory, the Marching Virginians won big this week with the Hokies 4 The Hungry canned food drive! In total, the Marching Virginians collected 21,217 cans within the band, beating the band record set last year! Congratulations to the MV Nets for collecting the most cans and most points during our interband competition!

MVs unloading cans after a successful food drive! (photo courtesy of the Montgomery County Christmas Store)

Furthermore, a HUGE thank you to the Clemson Marching Band for donating 2,200 cans and $800 to our cause during their visit! The band also collected additional cans and monetary donations during our roaming pep bands, bringing our final count to a total of 24,518 cans and $16,000!

We want to give a big thank you to everyone who participated in our food drive to support the Montgomery County Christmas Stores and those in need in our community during the upcoming holiday seasons!

The Heartbeat of Lane: Meet VT's Drumline

When the MVs take the field, the wind instruments stand at the forefront of it all. From the audience, it’s easy to get lost in the flashy horn moves and warm melodies from the brass and woodwinds. However, if you let yourself fall deeper into the music, you’ll feel the pulse driving each piece forwards. With each precise movement, the drumline is responsible for keeping the music alive.

Despite their integral role, the drumline’s dedication and extra effort is often overlooked. Let’s shift the spotlight and spend a game day with VT’s very own drumline.

Warmups

While wind players are seen strolling into the MVC and playing section sports, the drumline begins grabbing their instruments and getting into formation. They start their rehearsal early by stretching—the arm circles, calf stretches, and laps help build the game day excitement among the section.

Their warm-up consists of 8s, accent taps, triplet rolls, and Pry paradiddles (named after the beloved Hokies football coach). The echoed beats across Chicken Hill signifies the start of rehearsal to the rest of the band and to the surrounding tailgaters.

“We work really hard to make sure everything sounds good… We’re here [early] because we have to be.”

Jin Yun, cymbals

Photo credit: Taylor Harrison

March to Victory

For the MVs, the March to Victory is one of the most impactful game day traditions. It allows us to interact directly with Hokie football fans as we enter Lane Stadium, anxiously awaiting the game. As we make our way to Lane from the MVC, the drumline can be heard playing Beamer Beats and their secondary cadence, which changes each season. These cadences are written by the drumline themselves, making them a unique part of the Virginia Tech football experience.

Pregame

If you look to the center of the MV stands just before the football team makes their appearance, you might be able to see each member of the drumline reach into a box of raisins. As the stadium seats begin to fill, the drumline proudly lifts their raisins to the air and proclaim words of encouragement before consuming the snack. With this, they are ready to watch the Hokies win another game.

“I love being super close to the field and getting to see the whole game.”

Mallie Yun, bassline (white shirt)

Photo credit: Nathalia Berenguer

Drum Cheers

After the game has commenced, the drumline can be heard leading the band through numerous in-game events. The drum cheers “Nokia Style” and “Bojangles” can be heard during second and fourth downs, respectively. Other cheers such as “Percolator” and “Donkey Punch” are played sporadically throughout the game to keep the energy high. The MVs love to dance, and you will notice that every section of the band has choreographed moves for each cheer.

As the final notes of Superman ring across the emptying stadium, light reflects off of metallic cymbals raised high in the air. With that, the game has ended.