This year marks the 153rd preseason for the Spartan Marching Band. Over the years, traditions such as kick stepping onto the field, marching series, and freshman orientation were created and evolved into what it is today. Interestingly, this leadership class has experienced the most dramatic additions to the handbook –– COVID-19 health and safety measures and international travel protocol. However daunting of a task it is to upkeep these new specifications in the handbook, this upcoming season brings an expectation for returning to excellence, and with that, returning to a new normal of greatness. This freshman class, including leadership and veteran members, are excited to bring the heat.
During the week, Dr. Thornton invited notable Michigan State coaches to motivate members that hard work really pays off. Leah Johnson, MSU’s new volleyball coach, stated to the leadership team, “Fail Hard, Win Big.” What she meant by this statement was the more you grow out of the fear of failure mindset, the faster and more efficiently you will learn.
To coincide with Leah Johnson, a few senior leadership members were asked to relay their perspective on how this 2022 preseason has been different from the past. Pelin Turan, Hooah squad leader and band librarian, states, “The season has started with incredible intensity. When we come into the season and rehearsals prepared, it gives us more time to pursue a higher caliber of performance. The freshmen class this year did exactly that. I think the whole band knows what it’s like to be somewhat average, really great, and even nonexistent. This year, we are here for something much more than that - excellence.”
Jenny Chan, Tenor Saxophone squad leader, also comments, “The biggest impact from this season so far has been the ability of our 2nd year members to influence the culture of our section and to watch them grow into confident musicians and marchers. Everyone feels so much more comfortable with each other both on a player level and a friend level, and seeing how that influences our new members this year gives me a drive to achieve some big goals this season.”
On the flip side, a few freshman members were asked about their experience during their first preseason. Ian Holtz, Trombone freshman and rotating chair member, states, “Being in the SMB, I was expecting to be challenged and that’s exactly what I got. This preseason helped me to remember how much hard work can pay off, and help to earn the respect of others around you.” The trust the freshman class has for the leadership team is upheld by showing by example. Without seeing veteran members work hard right next to the freshman, they will not understand how good it will feel to sound and look great on the first game day.
Another notable quote is from lovely Sydney Kramer, a Trombone freshman. She comments, “Honestly, I was very afraid of coming into the SMB. Being from out of state, I didn’t know anyone from the university let alone the band coming in, and I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to handle the vigor that comes with preseason. I am so proud to say that my previous assumptions were so wrong. The welcoming atmosphere of the SMB was apparent from minute one. While I have never worked harder both in marching band and in my life, I have never felt more supported, engaged, and accomplished. I can’t wait to see what this season brings because I am already loving my experience in the SMB.”
Time and time again, it has been proven that if people are in a physiologically safe environment, they have room to “fail hard, win big.” The tone was set for this season on Monday, August 22nd, when the freshman had a keen sense of self-awareness and acute focus. This 153rd season will be the best to come.
And always,
GO STATE BEAT AKRON!
