Some good questions and observations about the Band in other's comments so I thought we might focus on that subject. Helps to get us psyched up for the upcoming reunion.
By now everyone probably knows that the band halftime shows are available on NBC.com and the coverage is very good. Good camera shots and sound. We hope they will get a closeup of Tony sometime. In response to the Colonel's questions; this Saturday's show will NOT be repeated at MSU. And the MSU show will not reappear until UCLA which follows the fall break. Easier to prepare in that short week I guess.
The Michigan band had a very good sound; lots of good musicians but they march a little over 200 I think. Corp style shows and marching, complete with the flags and three twirlers. The drum major does not direct, he runs around twirling as well. Led Zeppelin probably never thought a marching band would do "Stairway to Heaven" but the arrangement was actually very good.
The ND band marches about 380 (400 total) and produces a lot of sound. 80 trumpets, 40 trombones, etc. will definitely make some noise. Since most kids are better musicians than our generation was at the time, the musicality is also quite good. If you listen to the band warmup at the concert on the steps and don't get a lump in your throat from the great sound, you must be dead.
Yesterday, the band had a long wait during pre-game for the team to take the field so they played a long rendition of "Rakes of Mallow" which is the one where all the students do the Irish jig. It was really something because they kept going for a long time and the student body is actually fun to watch as they merrily hop along in time with the music. I think it was the last happy moment of the day for them (oops I lapsed into football thought there).
Speaking of the band reunion, Nina and I will be at the Friday night reception but are skipping the Saturday dinner. We felt that was a bust at previous reunions so we are planning to enjoy a quiet dinner in North Dining Hall after our glorious return to the marching gridiron. Anyone looking for company is welcome to join us.
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Most Revered Godfather
Thanks for the assessment, clarification and looking ahead.
380. Wow. Is Tony an element leader yet?
Right now we're signed up for the Saturday dinner (didn't realize it starts at 8:30) but not for Friday's reception. I think we will go to the reception. We'll have to drive Friday night to Michigan City hotel early so we can get up Saturday to be at practice. After taking the redeye Thursday night from LA because I have to be in the office Thursday.
Anyone have any extra (not too expensive) hotel rooms in the South Bend area???
See you all soon. Can not wait!
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