Band makes promised improvements
Carolina's marching band can accurately be called the "Mighty Sound of the Southeast" once again, at least if the past three games are any indication.
Last year, the band sounded lethargic — almost dead. The songs were slow and low.
Students complained. Administrators complained. Fans complained. The band was outperformed at almost every game.
No longer are any of these criticisms valid.
On Saturday, the pregame and halftime routines were engaging and entertaining. The formation of the Horseshoe and its historic gates by the band members as they played evoked pride. It was unique and a fitting tribute to the university's strongest symbols.
The band marched down the field with gusto. There was a contagious energy, an energy that the band has long needed.
They had swag. They were loud, at times really loud. This couldn't be said in years past but could be said on Saturday: The band was part of the game.
And the fans — particularly the students — noticed. When's the last time you've heard several rounds of applause for the band? On Saturday, they were deserved.
Lots of people deserve credit for this. Particularly, we must thank the members of the band for giving the university a group it can be especially proud of.
Rebecca Phillips, the new director, has quickly turned the group around. Her energetic conducting and frequent smiles, even as the band played 15 minutes after the game, showed exactly how much she cares. Her assistant directors and entire staff share the praise as well.
President Harris Pastides and School of Music Dean Tayloe Harding promised change and delivered. With their leadership, this became a public issue.
At Friday's pep rally, head coach Steve Spurrier said USC has the best band in the country. This may not be true yet, but the band is certainly getting there.