AAMB in Beijing, China: Special Report from Brent Russell

Brent Russell is an AAMB alum from West Lafayette, IN, who traveled with the band to document their historic trip to China, May 26-June 2, 2008, in photos. We hope you enjoy his photos and daily diary!

May 28 was our biggest day of sightseeing.  We drove in the mid-morning to Tiananmen Square.  It is an open courtyard approximately 800 meters by 500 meters - about the area of a 9-hole golf course.  Across the street is the Forbidden City.  I was not prepared for how enormous the Forbidden City complex is.  more...

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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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..