As we kick the season off with band camp, we took the time to interview some of our leadership on their expectations for band camp and the coming season. Here’s what they had to say:
pictured: (left) David Rudolph (right) Nicholas Van de Meulebroecke source: Abbie Robertson
Question 1: Only our seniors (and super seniors) have had more than one “normal” band camp. How do you think this one will compare to the others?
pictured: Dean McDonough source: Ashlyn McDonald
David Rudolph, a saxophone rank captain in his 3rd year
Expectation: “I have no idea what to expect. I'll be just as nervous as some of the rookies.”
Reality: “Band camp this year has been an amazing experience and has certainly lived up to the already high expectations I had for the season. Meeting the rookies now with a different perspective of being in leadership and the experience of being both an example but more importantly a learner as I spent the band camp learning and laughing with the best group of people. And the previous years have been great as I spent my time learning how to be an MV and now spending my time teaching others what it means to be an MV. Band camp couldn’t have been better this season and I’m excited to see what the rest of the season holds.”
Nick Alford, a Senior Staff Assistant in this 5th year
Expectation: “This band camp - coming out of Covid - everyone is excited to come back to a welcoming environment and to express themselves. There’s excitement everywhere without as many barriers.”
Reality: “They matched up pretty well, I figured everyone would be excited to be back together again. We’re marching, making music, and there’s even more excitement this season than I was expecting!"
Dean McDonough, the baritone section leader in his 5th year
Expectation: “We’re actually gonna get off on a better foot than last year. We have less to worry about: people know how to march, leadership is returning, we know the drill.”
Reality: “I would say that the whole feel of band camp has changed over each year, and looking back, I can see the change, but in the moment, it feels like this is what it’s meant to be. The culture has evolved — we see it across different sections and within the leadership. The past few years of marching band have been so fun partly because it’s hard to tell what’s gonna happen each season.”
Question 2: The weather in Blacksburg can be unpredictable at best, how do you think you’ll beat the heat (or rain, or snow, or tornados)?
pictured: Nick Alford source: Abbie Robertson
Nick Alford
Expectation: “Be prepared. You can get three types of weather at once in one day. Always keep both an umbrella and sunglasses on you. Stay hydrated.”
Reality: “Honestly, it was freezing cold, which I didn’t expect this early in the season, but now that the sun is out, hopefully it stays warmer before we get into the rainy and cold days”
Ethan Van Dyke, a trumpet rank captain in his 4th year
Expectation: “Just take it. Once you’ve experienced your first tornado, you’re a different person.”
Reality: “We got torrential downpour and almost struck by lighting, so that’s proof in itself of the crazy weather.”
Question 3: What advice do you have for your future self - for both one week in the future and the end of the season?
pictured: Calvin Moore source: Abbie Robertson
Nick Van de Meulebroecke
Expectation: “Enjoy it, it’s your last year. You’re never gonna be in an organized marching band again. And being in the front row of the end zone: I’m never gonna experience that again.”
Reality: “I think I have enjoyed it, I don’t think it’s hit me yet that it’s my last year, but it still has been good in the moment. Once we get to performing the last pregame, or maybe the bowl game it’ll hit, but right now I’m still in it.”
Calvin Moore, a drum major in his fourth year
Expectation: “Listen and learn. Get to know people - everyone. Keep your ears open, keep your eyes open. Be ready for new ideas”
Reality: "There’s so much to learn every new day of camp, so listening and keeping an open mind is the key to thriving this week. I’m still working on meeting everyone in our band, but I’ve loved the conversations I’ve had so far!”
Question 4: What are you most excited for and what is your favorite part of band camp?
pictured: Ethan Van Dyke source: Beau Wong
Nick Alford
Expectation: “Everyone getting back together and meeting new people. Everyone is different and adds to the organization.”
Reality: “I was excited to get everyone back together and playing music again, and it’s met my expectations. I’ve met some new rookies and look forward to enhancing those connections and making new ones as the season progresses”
Calvin Moore
Expectation: “I’m both excited and incredibly nervous for the first game. I’m excited to hear the band together for the first time, especially under the pavilion. After six or seven months, you forget how powerful the band can be.”
Reality: “I’m still pumped up for our first game in Lane this season! We’re working hard this week to make each rep better than the last so we can give 66,000 Hokies the best atmosphere possible.”
Dean McDonough
Expectation: “I’m excited to play Tech Triumph one last time. I know it’s gonna be good. We’re gonna have an awesome time.”
Reality: “We could have more opportunities to play after our normal season, which is exciting. I’ve done so much in Lane Stadium, and I’m gonna miss every stupid little thing I’ve done with my friends. I really feel honored to be a part of this band, and I’m very thankful for the positivity and love that everyone has spread.”
pictured: Participants of Band Camp 2022 source: Abbie Robertson
Tune in next week to see our official Band Camp 2022 Post!