New Purdue drum majors from Connecticut, California

Richard Marzullo, a freshman from Stamford, CT, and Kenny Eneboe, a sophomore from San Jose, CA, bring youthful energy to the position of drum major with the Purdue Marching Band and add extra meaning to its “All-American” name.

“For the first time Purdue’s marching band leadership will have a true coast-to coast flair. It’s much more typical for drum majors to come from the Midwest,” says Kathy Matter, Purdue Band Public Relations Director.

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Purdue Band connection to Indy 500 creeps towards 90

When the Purdue “All-American” Marching Band first performed at the Indianapolis 500, it truly was a brickyard. Trees, not people, were packed in the oval’s four turns, and a couple dozen rows of bleacher seats under a low-slung roof accommodated fans.

On May 25, for the 89th time, the Purdue’s Band will perform in opening ceremonies for the world-famous race. Lots of things have changed over nine decades. Only a few bricks remain for historical purposes marking the start and finish line. more...

Clarinetist Andrew Keller wins coveted Sudler Prize

Andrew Keller of Hagerstown, IN, bested senior candidates from Purdue University’s various visual and performing arts departments and organizations to win the Louis Sudler Prize in the Arts. It marks the fifth time in six years a representative of Purdue Bands & Orchestra has won the honor as Purdue’s top senior in the arts.

Keller, a clarinet player in two of the department’s top ensembles – the Purdue Symphonic Band and Purdue Symphony Orchestra – performed Mozart’s “Concerto for A Clarinet” and gave a presentation offering insights into the construction and history of the piece, more...

Gephart elected to American Bandmasters Association

Jay Gephart, Director of Bands at Purdue University and director of “All-American” Marching Band, was elected to membership in the American Bandmasters Association at their annual March convention held in Miami, FL. Gephart was one of nine people elected to membership this year.

Gaining membership in this organization is a mark of excellence in the field of band conducting. Gephart joins past Purdue directors Al G. Wright and the late Bill Moffit as a member of this organization. more...

Former AAMB Director Bill Moffit dies

Perhaps best remembered by his Purdue students and colleagues for his smile and his infectious enthusiasm, Bill Moffit always saw the best in people. “I never see mistakes,” he once said. “I only see better ways to do things.”

Purdue Bands is deeply saddened to report the death of Dr. William C. “Bill” Moffit at 3 a.m. Wednesday, March 5, 2008, in Jacksonville, FL, where he resided with his wife Jeannette. more...

MerrieBeth Cox named Purdue’s 27th Golden Girl

MerrieBeth Cox, an incoming Purdue freshman from Roselle, IL, topped the competition to become Purdue’s 27th Golden Girl on Saturday, March 1. She will take over the legendary twirling position in August when the 2008-09 school year commences.

“MerrieBeth will bring a dynamic energy to Ross Ade Stadium and Mackey Arena. Fans will love her because of her twirling speed, her advanced level of technical ability and her ability to incorporate dance and gymnastics into her routines,” said Alisha Kuckartz, Director of the Twirlers and Dancers for Purdue Bands. more..