Screaming Eagles band members practiced their hearts out Aug. 14-17 in preparation for the 2018 season. Freshman Hannah Roberts is pictured. Photo by Jordan Beach
By Jordan Beach
Reinhardt University’s Screaming Eagles Marching Band ensemble increased in size by 150 percent since last year, and the connections between students have remained strong.
“I’m proud of Reinhardt administration’s support of this growing ensemble,” said Dr. Daniel Kirk, assistant professor of music and director of instrumental activities. “They know students want to be connected to a campus family, and participation in the marching band does just that.”
One student who feels the connection is sophomore and business major Katie Rouse, an involved member for a year-and-a-half who will serve as drum major this season.
“Marching band has always been a second family for me. It is so important that you have people in your life that accept and love you, and the marching band is the epitome of love and acceptance,” said Rouse.
The band spent 12 hours each day Aug. 14-17 at band camp, preparing for the halftime show to be performed at Reinhardt University home football games, a Broadway music montage including many well-known songs. Kirk is proud the band has one of the most highly visible “faces of Reinhardt” in the community and believes band members will take their school spirit beyond their yard line formations.
“Our growing Screaming Eagles is a powerful force of school spirit, student unity and community engagement. Whether at home football games, area events and parades or in their professional work after graduation, our marching band students represent campus pride and our Reinhardt family spirit in the best of ways,” said Kirk.
Rouse is looking forward to her role as drum major, hopeful to grow as a leader to be her best while guiding the band and is excited to be surrounded by incredible musicians and individuals.
“I want to make sure everyone enjoys their time with the band, and I want to help them create experiences that they’ll remember years from now,” said Rouse. “I really want them to see their worth in their own eyes, and I am willing to help them achieve that however I can.”
