If you have been to a Vanderbilt football game, you might be familiar with the sound of Vanderbilt’s student marching band, Spirit of Gold. The Hustler had the opportunity to go behind the scenes with the band, highlighting what it takes to produce their shows.
Spirit of Gold is split into four main groups. Drumline consists of percussion-based instruments, from cymbals to bass drums. Windline includes instruments that require air, from piccolos to sousaphones. The color guard and twirlers integrate flags and batons respectively as they perform on the field alongside the music. These groups practice both separately and together butperform as one large group during major performances.
The entire Spirit of Gold band is united for pre-game events, which include stops at the tailgates and kids’ zone. Oftentimes during these visits, spectators can be heard chanting “S-O-G” as the band performs.
Before transitioning to the stadium, band members take a break behind the scenes. This serves as a time to put instruments down and prepare for the game.
Spirit of Gold takes the field twice during a football game, once before the game and a second time for the halftime show. The band also plays in the stands throughout a game, including after every first down, third down as well as during defensive plays.
After the game members put their instruments down on the field, the break doesn’t last long though. After all, there’s still another halftime show to practice.
