A group going around campus collecting donations and canned food for Hokies for the Hungry; Source: Beau Wong
One fan took this amazing picture to demonstrate the spirit of The Marching Virginians; Source: Breanna Goode.
As cliché as it might sound, we are not like other bands, and one of the reasons why this is… is because of the incredible community that we cultivate, and how we give back to the community. Blacksburg and Montgomery county have hosted The Marching Virginians throughout the duration of our existence, and we are incredibly humbled and proud by the immense amount of support that we continue to experience. As a small token of thanks, we make sure to support the community that has given us so much, by the “Hokies for the Hungry” canned food drive and by raising awareness for the issues that plague our community. Hokies for the Hungry has been a tradition for years, first started by Tau Beta Sigma, where the MVs collect canned food for the Holiday Giving project, which helps low-income families have food during Thanksgiving and Christmas. If you’re interested in helping out, be sure to check out their website for more information to get involved with the community! The saying goes “One can for every fan,” where if we can receive one donation, then we can reach our goal and make sure that people have something to eat during the holidays.
Just look at our beautiful trumpet section! Way to go; Source: Beau Wong.
In the future, we vow to keep our acts of service, with both Hokies for the Hungry and with other various volunteer projects, such as “Marching for Parkinson’s” from this year. The Marching Virginians wouldn’t be where they are without the support that they have, both within and outside of our band, so if you’re taking the time to read this, then thank you. You make this band what it is, and we are forever grateful for your support!
Now, let’s reflect on the specifics of Hokies for the Hungry. Before the game, the band is divided up and sent around campus, where they play music for donations or cans. Certain tunes cost a certain number of dollars, with “Stick It In” and the “Hokie Pokie” going for about a hundred dollars, and other songs going for about ten dollars. During the event, we saw many fans who waved and danced the Hokie Pokie with us; thank you, we appreciate you! Some of the tunes that were played included: Bom Bom, Led Zeppelin’s Kashmir, Crazy Train, Frankenstein, Imperial March, Shenandoah, and so many more!
The Piccolo section cheering for the Hokies; Source: Beau Wong.
This year was incredible for Hokies for the Hungry! We managed to donate thousands upon thousands of cans, and up to twenty thousand dollars to support those in need. This has broken our previous record of donations, and by a landslide! We have just about doubled our goal, and now many families in the community will not have to worry about what they eat for Thanksgiving and Christmas. We are so blessed for what we have, and words cannot describe how thankful we are that we are in this position where we can help Montgomery county. Let’s see what The Marching Virginians can bring to the table next year!
Now, let’s discuss the halftime show! Oh, but wait… that’s right, today’s show was during pregame! Every year, the pregame show is a tradition that has spanned across the years. Many alumni of The Marching Virginians remark on its importance to them, and we are honored that we are able to uphold its tradition and continue it to 2021. A select few from the Corps of Cadets, with the flag of the United States, march through the various MV pinwheels, along with the Drum Major, Cami Kudrna.
The Clarinets are getting into it; Source: Nayha Pochiraju.
In this show, The Marching Virginians play The Star Spangled Banner, Copland Colors, Fanfare from “Superman,” Shenandoah, VPI Victory March, and Tech Triumph! During this show, the MVs spell out “Tech,” “Hokies,” and “VT.” They create the state of Virginia, and even make a special spot for Blacksburg (and we can’t forget about the infamous toilet bowl set)! After the performance, the MVs also make the tunnel for the football team to run through. It is such a blast, and a change of pace from the typical halftime game. We hope that you’ll take the time to watch it next year with us!
Now, onto the football portion of our game. On November 13th, the Hokies faced Duke University, where in 5 plays, VT marched into Duke territory, and R. Blackshear rushed for a 20 yard touchdown; the extra point was good. The Hokies successfully held back against the Blue Devils, and Duke tried to make a field goal, which they ultimately missed.
One of our cymbals, Claire Holmes, during the third quarter of the game. Go Hokies; Source: Maria Carrillo.
In the second quarter, Burmeister passed to King, who ultimately led a 47 yard touchdown against Duke. At this point of the game, with the extra point, Virginia Tech was up 14 points. The Blue Devils retaliated with a successful 3 point field goal, making the score 14-3. J. Romo of the Hokies responded with his very own field goal, making it 17-3. Throughout this, the MVs have been jamming, playing Scatman numerous times, and cheering on the Hokies.
Now, in the third quarter of the game, Burmeister’s pass to K. Smith is good, where he rushes a 30 yard touchdown against the Blue Devils. J. Romo’s extra point is good, and after several plays have passed, J. Romo’s field goal was successful, making the score 27-3. After eight plays, the Blue Devils manage to score a touchdown and keep a bit of pressure on the Hokies.
Finally, in the fourth quarter, there are three more touchdowns from the Hokies, and a singular touchdown from Duke. The score ended at 48-17, with the Hokies claiming victory.