Eight The University of Olivet Marching Comets are taking the field in a new way this January. The College Band Director’s National Association (CBDNA) is hosting the Intercollegiate Marching Band (IMB), which will virtually perform Beyonce’s “End of Time,” arranged by Michigan’s own Scott Boerma. The ensemble will include 1600 students from 200 collegiate band programs from across the country
The students nominated and selected for this experience include Savanna Baughan ’24, color guard; Grace Forbush ’21, color guard; Laura Fox ’23, drum major; Carsten Gregersen ’22, mellophone; Victoria Herson ’22, baritone; Tori John ’21, baritone saxophone; Kaytlynne Morris ’22, percussion; and Makennah Rousseau ’21, clarinet.
”The video of this incredible performance will be launched to the public online on Jan. 11, 2021. Additionally, the performance will be aired in the stadium on the big screen during halftime at the national championship college football game on the same day!” said Jeremy Duby, The University of Olivet director of bands. “In these difficult times, the music will play on. Our students have worked through adversity with extreme grace and Comet Pride! The University of Olivet will be very well represented on the national stage this January.”
Sophomore Laura Fox serves as the Marching Comets’ drum major and has also been playing the trumpet for nine years. This fall was Laura’s first season leading the band, and she adapted to many unique challenges, as social distancing, personal protective equipment and other safety guidelines were at the forefront. The band offered several concerts in the College square and also livestreamed a number of small performances, but the opportunity to be involved as a greater community reminds her of the true purpose behind band.
“The band and music community have always been one of support and unity, and I think that having all of these college bands come together to make music during a time of hardship and perseverance really reflects that,” Laura said. “I’m so excited to represent the Marching Comets as the drum major and can’t wait to see the final video in January.”
Senior Tori John has been playing the baritone saxophone for 11 years. The IMB performance will hold an especially close place in her heart as the cap on her college marching band career.
“It is an amazing opportunity to perform on a national scale and bring attention to our program,” Tori said. “As a senior, it is the last time I will put on my uniform. I did miss being able to have the halftime performance experience during our regular season.”
For junior and music major Victoria Herson, performing with the honor band will be both a personal and professional accomplishment. She has been playing the baritone for eight years and hopes to become a musician for the U.S. Army.
“Being selected for the IMB is very important to me because it is my opportunity to contribute to the entire world during this stressful time,” Victoria said. “I am most excited for seeing the video premiered in front of millions of people because we get to show the world how important collaboration is when it does not seem possible to accomplish.”
Follow the Intercollegiate Marching Band on Facebook or Instagram @intercollegiatemb to stay updated on event details. Learn more about The University of Olivet by contacting the Office of Admission at 800-456-7189 or admissions@uolivet.edu.
Menu