WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., Sept. 21, 2017 — West Liberty University President Dr. Stephen Greiner’s announcement today was music to the ears of students, alumni and the entire campus community.
“I am very pleased to announce that we are now able to bring the Marching Hilltoppers back to the hilltop. When the band was put on hiatus in March 2016 it was due to state budget cuts, and even though we continue to see state budget cuts, we have found a way to bring the band back. We value it as an integral part of the University and want to give students an opportunity to be part of the great tradition of the marching band,” he said at a 10 a.m. press conference, held on the quad. “So let’s strike up the band and return the tradition to the Hilltop.”
A search is now taking place for the new director of bands with a goal to have the band fully operational by next fall.
“On behalf of the Department of Music and Theater, we are very excited about bringing back the Marching Hilltoppers in the fall of 2018. We have tremendous support from the administration and we all feel that the band will enhance the sense of community and excitement for our campus. Our new Director of Bands will lead the flagship WLU Wind Ensemble as well as the Marching Hilltoppers. Our music program is very strong and this addition will add a new level of engagement and new opportunities for our students,” said Dr. Matt Harder, Dean of the College of Arts and Communication.
Beautiful black and gold uniforms, complete with headgear, were purchased just four years ago and have been in storage and are ready to go.
Performing at the press conference were two senior music students, Gabriella Saporito playing the flute, and Shane Powell playing the drum. Junior music student Rachel Krems also attended and all were in uniform.
“In my case, the marching band was the impetus that inspired me to consider music professionally,” said Powell, who began playing in the band at McGuffey High School and then continued for two years here at WLU. He is now applying to graduate school to continue his education post commencement.
“We are now actively recruiting students for the Marching Hilltoppers and can’t wait to see them entertain during Hilltopper athletic events, Homecoming and community events,” Harder said. Scholarships also are available, according to Harder.
Besides the Marching Hilltoppers, performance opportunities for music students at WLU include the University Singers, the College Community Chorus, Opera Workshop, and other small choirs. Instrumental ensembles include the Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Brass Ensemble, Woodwind Ensemble, Guitar Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, Steel Band, and Electronic Music Ensemble.
WLU’s Department of Music and Theater is housed within the College of Arts and Communication. It offers Bachelor of Music degrees in Music Performance and Music Technology and the Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education. Students also may choose to minor in music.
For complete information, please contact the music department at 304-336-8006.
To view the Channel 14 coverage of today’s press conference, please click here.