Behind Bandorama

The annual musical review of the Blue Band’s performances from that season has been a long-standing tradition at Penn State that has been embraced by students and fans alike.  Parents, peers, and high school groups make the trek to Eisenhower Auditorium to see both the Penn State Symphonic Band and the Blue Band perform a show of musical excellence.  A semester’s worth of rehearsals, drills, and individual practice time is represented in the sights and sounds of this evening, and this year’s show this Friday is no different.

For members of the Blue Band this week is one of the most trying and time consuming of the season.  Extra rehearsals are added into the schedule and the scramble to recover all of the music from the last three months seems to always result in the librarians’ near-meltdowns.  In addition to putting a challenging show on the field for the game this upcoming Saturday, the band must recall the nuances of music performed from as far back as August.

Is it worth it?  Absolutely.  Aside from the obvious significance of the 2014 edition of Bandorama being Dr. Bundy’s last performance, this show is a culmination of the hard work and dedication of each and every member of the ensemble throughout this semester.  From the first music rehearsal of the famous Penn State fight songs during band camp to learning every other fight song for Big Ten schools throughout the season, the students you will see on stage this Friday have a lot to offer in both talent and showmanship.  From the smallest piccolo rookie to the largest bass drummer, there is no insignificant member of the Blue Band.  As high schoolers many of them had attended Bandorama and were inspired by the performance to audition upon their admission to Penn State, and it is the hope to inspire the next generation of talented Blue Banders that makes the extra time worth it.

With the elimination of some traditional performance opportunities for the band this season, Bandorama is an opportunity for family, friends, and fans who don’t attend football games to support the ensemble.  The high volume of ticket sales for the performance this Friday are also a direct reflection of the public’s appreciation for Dr. Bundy.  For years he has been acknowledged with rousing applause at the end of Bandorama, and this year the applause is sure to represent the respect and admiration the fans of the Blue Band have for this incredible director and all that he has done for the University.

This Friday, after a performance by the School of Music’s Symphonic Band, the Blue Band will take the stage at Eisenhower Auditorium to show the incredible musical and athletic talent they have to offer.  At the end of this show, Dr. Bundy will take his last bow with the Blue Band on that stage.

The Blue Band is one of the greatest traditions of this university, and Bandorama is one of the greatest traditions of the Blue Band.  So, on Friday, just as it has for years, the Blue Band will Raise the Song, For the Glory.