Illinois State University’s band program has a rich history dating back 100 years, when the Normal University’s Varsity Band first appeared at sports and games in the early 1900s.
Today, hundreds of students from all majors participate in Illinois State’s concert, jazz, and athletic bands, including the Big Red Marching Machine. (The marching band had been around for decades, but the BRMM name was coined by Ed Livingston after he was appointed director of bands in 1977.)
Today’s BRMM has 265 members across all sections, including musicians, color guard, baton, and dance. As the BRMM prepares to take the field at Hancock Stadium again this Saturday for the Redbird football game versus Indiana State, the STATEside crew pulled together some historic photos of the marching band in action over the years, with some help from the Dr. Jo Ann Rayfield Archives:
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- Grab your exclusive 2023-24 Fear the Bird shirt and show off your Redbird spirit this year! Get rewarded by wearing your shirt to the Bone Student Center on Fridays.
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- Dr. Melissa Johnson, from left, Dr. Alison Bailey, and Dr. Cassie Herbert at the University Professor Award Luncheon.
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- Dr. Jody Herman, UCLA (Photo by UCLA, The Williams Institute)
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- Colder temperatures will be here before you know it. Make sure you’re prepared this school year with this Champion sweatshirt. Stay warm and cozy while rocking that school spirit!
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- Check out Paulson Designs for a collection of ISU art. Their unique canvases are a perfect addition to any room!
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- Dr. Kass Fleisher (1959-2023)
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- If a large flag isn’t your style, check out this Redbird pennant. A perfect companion to existing wall decorations, yet bold enough to stand alone
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- Show off your Redbird pride with this ISU tumbler. Perfect for on the go! Whether you’re trying to stay cool with a cold beverage or trying to stay warm with hot coffee or tea, this tumbler is ideal for keeping your beverage at the perfect temperature.
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- Sport a great look in these Nike shorts! The perfect addition to your ISU apparel collection and great for that first day of school outfit.
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- Redbirds volunteer as Curb Birds during Move-In Week.
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- Wanting to start the school year off fresh with a new backpack? We’ve got you covered! This ISU backpack has all the features to ensure you are prepared for classes.
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- This ISU flag is the perfect way to decorate your room and show off that Redbird pride!
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- The perfect addition to your Redbird apparel. Accessorize any outfit with this ISU adjustable cap!
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- The perfect shorts to pair with any shirt! Spice up your look with this pair of Nike athletic shorts. Whether you are heading to class or lounging around, these shorts are a great fit for all your needs.
For more information about BRMM, visit Bands.IllinoisState.edu.
Ryan Denham can be reached at rmdenha@IllinoisState.edu.
