Madelen Wick, Comm 281 

Beaver pride is at an all-time high during Homecoming week, and the Minot State University Marching Band is preparing to join the festivities. This year, the band will bring spirit and music to the Homecoming Parade and tailgating activities. 

“I really enjoy performing for the Beaver fans and teams,” said MSU student Arik Napoles. “Being able to contribute to our team’s spirit is exciting!” 

See the Pride of MSU Marching Band perform on a float in the Homecoming Parade at 10:30 a.m. Then head to the MSU Dome L Lot for tailgating at 11:30 a.m., where the band will energize Beaver fans for the game. 

While the band will not be performing a pre-game or halftime show at the Homecoming football game this year, there will still be plenty of spirit as the Beavers take on Northern State at Herb Parker Stadium at 2 p.m. The celebration will wrap up with the MSU volleyball team playing Mayville State at 4:30 p.m. at the Dome. 

Events like these bring the band closer together, according to Napoles. 

“The band is like its own little family,” he said. “We strive to push each other to be our best every rehearsal. There are plenty of times of laughter and jokes happening too. The friendships within the band are some of the best.” 

The first band at Minot State University (Minot State Teacher’s College at the time) dates back to 1934 under the direction of Arturio Petrucci. Throughout the program’s development, the marching band performed in major venues across the United States, including halftime shows for the Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, and Green Bay Packers. The Beavers also marched in the Portland Rose Festival in 1956 where they were named the Honor Band of the Festival.  

In the fall of 1984, the marching program was officially disbanded, but 25 years later, Joseph T. Alme brought back the Minot State University Marching Band for Homecoming 2009. Today, the band plays an important role in inspiring student spirit and culture. 

“Don’t hesitate to join,” Napoles said. “We have many great student leaders and teachers in each section who will want to help you succeed. It also gives a sense of self-pride, as we’re always sharing music to the community.” 

All students are welcome to join the band, whether they are music majors or otherwise. According to the MSU Department of Fine and Performing Arts, “We have members from every size high school, with every experience ranging from music majors to people with little or no experience. If you can play your instrument, we will help you do the rest! Our marching and concert band activities are designed to appeal to everyone. At least 85% of the band is made up of non-music majors.” 

Students interested in the MSU Band Program should contact Minot State Associate Professor Charles Young by email at charles.young.1@minotstateu.edu.