acastro@mavs.coloradomesa.edu

CMU will have a marching band in the fall of 2013. It was announced in front of the Moss Performing Arts Center on Tuesday.

“As Colorado Mesa University transitions into a new era of growth and expansion, the time is ripe to begin another new tradition—the CMU Marching Band,” President Tim Foster said in a statement. “I’m sure they’ll be marching until their little feet fall off.”

Although the marching band will not begin performing until fall 2013, they will stand and play on the field next fall.

It’s been over 30 years since CMU had a marching band. With marching bands being prominent among School District 51 high schools, CMU students say that a marching band will be beneficial to the university.

“Having a marching band will pull in more students,” freshman Sarah Wagner said. “I had a close friend from high school go to Adams State because CMU did not have a marching band.”

Wagner spent four years marching in high school and plans on becoming part of CMU’s band.

“My favorite part about marching band is being able to entertain a ton of people all in one event,” Wagner said.

Music Department Head Calvin Hofer said a marching band will add a full-time tenure track position. CMU will be looking to recruit musicians from across Colorado and Utah.

“We’re excited to build a tradition and serve as musical ambassadors,” Hofer said.

For more information on the marching band, contact Hofer at chofer@coloradomesa.edu.