The clicking and intense sound of the drumline echoes down Engineer- ing Avenue as the Javelina Marching Band prepares
for its annual show. Metic- ulously studying the beat and practicing different rhythms, the drumline sets the tempo for the rest of the band.
Many students were disappointed their march- ing season was shut down abruptly in the Spring because of COVID-19, so they now are eager for the opportunity to perform as a group with precautions in place.
“As a student, it is com- forting knowing we can come together to make a sound again. In the Spring a lot of our shows got cutoff,andforalotofusthis is the first time in months that we are able to produce an ensemble sound. Even if we are six feet apart, it is still better than nothing,” Drum Major Carlos Na- varro said.
The Javelina Marching Band and Color Guard are stepping outside their norm as they embrace a new approach to march- ing season.
With a hold on sports, the Javelina Marching Band decided to showcase their pride by creating a virtual show, focusing on the basics of marching band and collaborating with MJM Works.
The collaboration be- tween the Javelina March- ing Band and MJM Works consists of a variety of mu- sical movements ranging from The Greatest Showman to classical music to be fea- tured on the MJM Works website, https://www.mjm- works.com.
“One of our main focus- es is to teach students ‘how to do’ marching band as opposed to doing march- ing band. We are working a lot on teaching tech- niques in conjunction with MJM Works. MJM enables us to connect with a larg- er audience and reach new people who may not be fa- miliar with The Javelina Marching Band. Instead of hearing a computerized sound, people will be able to listen to us, and that’s very exciting,” Associ- ate Director of Bands Dr. George Schrader said.
The visuals and creativ- ity found every Saturday night at the football stadi- um resonates within the spirit of Javelina Nation.
But, the famous Jalisco will continue to be played all over campus by a PEP band to restore some normalcy and encourage students to keep striving despite difficult times. The marching band takes this opportunity as a learning experience and a chance to expand their network and reach differ-
ent demographics through their collaboration.
“This year is a great op- portunity for us to grow as musicians. We are work- ing on a project with MJM and that allows for differ- ent schools to hear our
band. I think that gives our band a different type of exposure. I find this year as a great moment to get our name out there as an organization,” Kevin Perez, drum major, said.
As the sun sets down and the night’s fresh air mingles with the sound of music, The Javelina Marching Band reminds its members of the oppor- tunities they’ve gained due to COVID-19 and the opportunity for growth.
