In the swarming mass of blue and green feuds, this week the iconic women leaders of the Spartan Marching Band and Michigan Marching Band have decided to reflect on the 50th anniversary of Title IX. Both of these ensembles not only perform with excellence, but have their part in furthering social change for women in music.
For the SMB, Dr. David Catron (1971-1974 and 1979-1988) was the director of the band when Title IX passed on June 23, 1972. He was the first person to include a woman in the traditionally male-dominated militaristic band for preseason of the 1972 season. Beth Kaufman, Feature Twirler, was the lucky woman to pave the way for future female members of the Spartan Marching Band. To Samantha, “It was really cool to get Mr. C’s perspective, and I am really glad he pushed for women in the band! Since then, we’ve had some amazing female leaders all around - this includes Physical Operations, Officer President/Vice Presidents, Squad/Section Leaders, and Drum Majors. The people before us shaped this organization and I couldn’t be more grateful to be another member passing it onto the next.”
In current times, the SMB is lucky enough to have a woman as the Associate Director. Dr. Arris Golden has been a pivotal part of the SMB team since 2018. Having a woman in an administrative position for the organization has been incredibly helpful for women auditioning for the band, and feeling comfortable during their entire SMB experience. Her advice to all female members entering is, “in all spaces, male-dominated or otherwise, be yourself and always be committed to that goal as a focus. Don’t be afraid to speak up for what you believe in or in situations where you believe your voice should be heard.” This has led to her viewpoint about the band. To Dr. Golden, “during my time with SMB as a graduate student and as a director it has been such a joy to watch the number of women participating in the band grow and especially in sections that have traditionally had more male members than female members. Their perspective has contributed so much to the growth of our community and I am excited as their numbers continue to grow each year!”
From our friends in the Michigan Marching Band, Drum Major Rachel Zhang was kind enough to say a few words in reflection of Title IX. To Rachel, “The MMB and the SMB share similar histories, we are also celebrating the 50th anniversary of including women in the ensemble. Ever since, women have significantly impacted the ensemble and have contributed to its legacy of excellence on and off the field. Every year, a victory towards a more equitable experience is won, and I think we get to be very proud of the progress that has been made. As time goes on, we see the demographics even out. We see more diverse representation in leadership. Three out of the past five drum majors have been women up front, that's pretty cool.” During their Title IX show, the alumni band joined the members on the field with a combined band show. For their setlist, they played “About Damn Time” by Lizzo and “The Dog Days Are Over” by Florence + The Machine, very fitting for a 50 year anniversary. Rachel remarks, “I have had the honor of meeting some of the women from the earliest classes, and it's fascinating hearing about their experiences. They are all incredibly talented, smart, strong, and humble. My favorite story comes from Doris, who has actually never marched with the MMB. She wasn't allowed to march on the field in her time, so she would play her piccolo on the sideline. Every homecoming since, our members know to look for Doris on the sideline, inspiring us with her spirit. It is thanks to the persistence of alumni like her that women like me now get to participate, and the mission for equity for all continues to be fueled by that spirit.” Rachel Zhang urges ensembles to encourage underrepresented members to audition and be a part of the action. To conclude with a piece of advice from Rachel to women in music, “I am gay. I am a minority. I am a woman. It's not comfortable being the only person that checks off a certain demographic box in the room, but the best thing I have learned to do is to feel empowered by that realization because you bring new, unique, valuable perspectives. Create space for yourself at that table, and do not apologize for being a part of the conversation. At the end of the day, the only affirmation you need comes from within, so stay ambitious and be proud of yourself for your hard work.”
A huge thank you to Rachel Zhang, and the MMB Media Team for your inclusion in today's article.
Today, Tomorrow, and Forever
Go Green, Go White, Go Women!