All right, band critics, here’s your chance.
Greg Byrne, director of the University of Louisville marching band, has announced he will relinquish his duties at the end of the academic year for another position in the School of Music.
While Byrne has received credit in past years for expanding the size of the band, the unit appears to have shrunk significantly this football season. Â No numbers have been announced but it’s pretty obvious.
As far as the observer is concerned, the band has been too conservative, almost withdrawn and lacking in energy during actual games, not adding much at all to the competitive atmosphere. Also, Rick Pitino would have many of them on a rigorous exercise routine.
One would hope that the people in charge give Tom Jurich or someone a role in the selection process who recognizes that a great band can add much to the school’s image while firing up the crowd during football games.
That’s why the band is there, right?
It’s time to unify the rift between the pep band, marching band and all parties concerned, especially Patrick Henry Hughes and the University. I enjoy listening to both bands. Do they really need to be seperate and run by two different departments?
The change in personnel just may be the first step in accomplishing what you suggest Paul.
BTW, Charlie, you know I wasn’t exactly built for speed when I was in the band, but I could play and march. Athleticism isn’t necessary; good chops and precision are.
Just what we need — the athletic department getting its hooks deeper into the band program. Sheesh.
Yes, I’m a proud former member of the U of L pep and marching bands. The band program was run by the School of Music in those days — what a concept! — during which the Cardinal pep band was named the nation’s best.
Of course, a lot of the stuff we did to crank up the crowd isn’t legal any more….
The band is somewhat subdued during games,hopefully the new band director can bring some new ideals and pep, to motivate the crowd.
I nominate Al Greener. He does a great job with the pep band. Wrote one of the fight songs and actually gets into the spirit of the game.