In 1927, John Phillip Sousa personally presented a sterling silver loving cup to director Spotts Emrick in recognition of the excellence of Purdue's band program.
Purdue's Big Bass Drum, built in 1921, weighed in at 300 pounds and cost $800. That price is less than the cost of one replacement drum head today.
When Elliott Hall opened in 1941 the Band Department had fewer than 200 students in two ensembles. Today it boasts nearly 700 in nine or more ensembles.
Broadway tunes, marches and light classics create an eclectic summer musical mix, reminiscent of John Philip Sousa famed park concerts, when the Purdue Summer Concert Band performs on Tuesday, July 16. more...