UCLA Color Guard: A Tradition of Excellence
The UCLA Color Guard is an integral part of the UCLA Bruin Marching Band, contributing visual artistry and dynamic movement to the band's performances. As part of the larger UCLA band program, the Color Guard embodies the spirit and tradition of the university. This article delves into the history, significance, and requirements for joining the UCLA Color Guard.
The UCLA Band Program
The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music houses a diverse range of musical ensembles, including the UCLA Marching Band, the UCLA Symphonic Band, and various student groups. These ensembles provide opportunities for students from across the university to participate in musical performance and contribute to the vibrant campus culture.
The Solid Gold Sound: UCLA Marching Band
The UCLA Marching Band, known as the Solid Gold Sound, has a rich history dating back to its official founding in 1928. Evolving from a pep band and the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) band, it has grown into a 250-member ensemble that performs at every home UCLA Football game. The band's performances also extend to other collegiate sports events, band festivals, and private gigs.
A Legacy of Performance and Recognition
The UCLA Bruin Marching Band has earned national recognition for its musical excellence and captivating performances. In 1993, the band received the Sudler Trophy, an award recognizing university marching bands with great music and tradition that have earned national respect. The award, described as "[t]he Heisman Trophy of the collegiate band world" by a Los Angeles Times reporter, celebrates the band's commitment to musical artistry and performance quality.
Marching Style and Formations
The UCLA Marching Band is known for its distinctive marching style, characterized by low mark times and glide steps. The band's field formations include fast-moving precision drill progressions, letter blocks, pictures, concert arcs, and the iconic Cursive UCLA formation. These formations, combined with the band's musical selections, create a dynamic and engaging performance for audiences.
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Traditions and Performances
The UCLA Marching Band has a number of long-standing traditions that contribute to the spirit and atmosphere of UCLA athletic events. The band traditionally opens the football pregame show with the Bruin Fanfare, an adaptation of the 20th Century Fox Fanfare. Following this, the band performs "Strike Up The Band for UCLA," a gift from George and Ira Gershwin to UCLA. The band also plays the Star Spangled Banner in concert formation and moves into the script UCLA formation to the tune of "Bruin Warriors". At the conclusion of athletic contests, the band plays the UCLA Alma Mater, "Hail to the Hills of Westwood."
The band's repertoire includes custom-arranged rock and pop songs, as well as the traditional fight songs and cheers of the university. These musical selections, combined with the band's dynamic performances, create an exciting and memorable experience for fans.
Notable Appearances
The UCLA Marching Band has made numerous appearances in movies, television shows, and commercials, showcasing its musical talent and versatility. The band appeared in the 41st Academy Awards show in 1969 to play the "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" theme song and has also performed at movie premieres in Westwood and Hollywood. The band's television appearances include performances on televised college sports, shows, and commercials.
The UCLA Color Guard: Visual Artistry in Motion
The UCLA Color Guard enhances the visual appeal of the UCLA Marching Band's performances. The Color Guard uses flags, rifles, and other equipment to create dynamic and expressive routines that complement the band's music.
Auditioning for the Color Guard
Students interested in joining the UCLA Color Guard must submit an audition video. The audition requirements vary depending on the section the student is interested in joining (Brass and Woodwinds, Drumline, or Color Guard). While the audition process may seem intimidating, the UCLA Band's frequently asked questions page indicates that most people who audition are accepted, although some sections are more competitive than others.
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Commitment and Rehearsals
Members of the UCLA Color Guard are expected to commit to a demanding rehearsal schedule. The band rehearses for 10 full days during Band Camp, which takes place before the start of the fall quarter. Throughout the season, the band typically rehearses on weekdays, with occasional Friday cancellations if there is no home game the following day.
Performances
The UCLA Color Guard performs at every home football game during the fall quarter, participating in a traditional pregame show and a new halftime show. The band also travels to either the Cal or Stanford game each fall, and smaller pep bands are sent to away games as well. After the football season, Color Guard members can join the pep band and perform at basketball games and other UCLA sports events.
A Community of Passion and Commitment
The UCLA Marching Band, including the Color Guard, is more than just a musical ensemble; it is a community of passionate and dedicated students. Band members form close friendships and support one another in their musical endeavors. The band's commitment to excellence and its vibrant spirit make it an integral part of the UCLA experience.
Student Perspectives
Drum major Ria Iyer, a second-year physiological science student, emphasizes the importance of rehearsals, performances, and the friendships formed within the band. Iyer notes that the marching band allowed her to find friends with whom she shared a passion and interest for the organization. Emma Crawford, another drum major and a third-year music education student, highlights the diversity of the band, with members from various academic backgrounds coming together to create the best possible performances.
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