Fresh Faces

One of the best parts about the months leading up to each new marching band season is the opportunity to interact with incoming freshmen and their families during orientation.  We are able to do a short information session about what being a Marching Pirate is all about as well as how to become a member.  As I give out important information, answer the bevy of questions, and practice my attempts at witty banter,  it's always exciting to see the eyes of students and parents alike light up when they hear about this wonderful organization.  In the end, it's the experiences that they are about to share with us that are what creates such excitement and anticipation for old and new member alike.  In a way, it's like welcoming new members into the Marching Pirate family.

Marching Band Athletes?

Have you ever wondered how physically demanding a marching band performance is?  Check out this segment from a 1995 ESPN broadcast of the DCI finals: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6WWmM1jpM8I

From a brilliant mind...

I recently read a quote from the novelist/philosopher Toni Morrison which encapsulates what is essentially my life's philosophy in a more eloquent way than I will ever come close to speaking or writing:

"I have often wished that Jefferson had not used that phrase 'the pursuit of happiness' as the third right ... I would rather he had written, 'life, liberty and the pursuit of meaningfulness' or 'integrity' or 'truth.' I know that happiness has been the real, if covert, goal of your labors here. I know that it informs your choice of companions, the profession you will enter. But I urge you, please do not settle for happiness. It's not good enough. Personal success devoid of meaningfulness, free of a steady commitment to social justice -- that's more than a barren life; it's a trivial one. It's looking good instead of doing good.'' (Rutgers University commencement address, Spring 2011)

The college game day atmosphere

It looks like the fans at the University of Nebraska have asked for a truer "college" atmosphere at their home football and basketball games.  In my experiences, it seems like more and more college sporting events have abandoned the use of the band and spirit groups in favor of "piped-in" music as the driving force for creating an exciting atmosphere.  What do you think, Pirate Nation?  What things would you want to see changed to improve game day experiences in Dowdy-Ficklen and Minges?

http://www.omaha.com/article/20110609/BIGRED/706099768/-1#strike-up-the-band-new-nu-plan

Welcome!

Greetings Pirate Nation!

Yes, the ECU Marching Pirates are now part of the blogosphere!  This medium will be used to promote, educate, and celebrate all things ECU Marching Pirates.  I look forward to keeping members, alumni, fans, and future members of the Marching Pirates informed about the comings and goings of The Sound of Pirate Nation!