Today I sat down and had a chat with my friend Alejandro, a second year studying Biochemistry who plays the trombone in UCLA’s world-renown marching band.
Her Campus: How did you get involved in marching band?
Alejandro: I’ve been in band for over five years now, and made some of my closest friends because of it. Before coming to college, I knew that since UCLA is such a big sports school, it would be the perfect opportunity to get involved with a really great marching band program. Marching band is also a great experience! I love performing in front of the huge crowds at every game and event. All of the members in band know each other too; I’ve met some of my best friends here because of it.
HC: What’s your favorite UCLA marching band memory?
A: Definitely the Standford trip during my freshman year. It was the first time the entire band traveled somewhere beyond the LA area, so we got to bond during the 6 hour bus ride to the game. We also spent one day in San Franscisco, which was really fun.
HC: What does a typical week look like for a marching band member?
A: During Fall Quarter we’re the most busy because of football season. We practice for about two hours a day, three times a week. We also practice a lot on the day of the game!
HC: If you could play any other instrument besides trombone, what would it be?
A: The Quads! They’re these weird-looking drums that have a bunch of smaller drums on them.
HC: Do you have a favorite song the marching band plays?
A: Word Up by Caeneo. It’s an 80’s type of song that’s really fun to play.
HC: What’s an aspect of being in marching band that a lot of people may not know about?
A: Even though there’s over 200 members, we’re a really tight-knit community. We all treat each other like family and it’s a really great community to be a part of.
Photos courtesy of Alejandro