Weekly Photo Challenge: Ooh, Shiny — UT’s Pride of the Southland Band

Looking shiny even on the practice field, the Pride of the Southland tubas pump out "Rocky Top."

Looking shiny even on the practice field, the Pride of the Southland tubas pump out “Rocky Top.”

Count me lucky.  Day 4 of UT’s Band Camp found many alums (including me!) watching as the Pride of the Southland Band practiced its newly- polished maneuvers.  Alums stood on the sidelines of a practice field near the Natalie L. Haslam Music Center duly impressed with what a group, together only for four days, could master for pre-game entertainment.

They marched 8 to 5.  They played “Rocky Top” and  “Star Spangled Banner.” And they sparkled — even in the 90-degree heat.

Upholding the colors: UT's Pride of the Southland flag corps

Upholding the colors: UT’s Pride of the Southland flag corps

Even if they weren’t perfect yet, they were getting there, thanks to the leadership of Band Director, Dr. Donald Ryder and an emphasis on perfection — from drums and horns to flags and majorettes.

Drilling for perfection: majorettes of Pride of the Southland Band

Drilling for perfection: majorettes of Pride of the Southland Band

If you’re anywhere near Knoxville for the home opener against Indiana State on September 9th, get into Neyland Stadium any way you can.  The Pride of the Southland Band will shine on . . . as always.

— Rusha Sams, a proud Golden Grad of the University of Tennessee

For more posts on the Weekly Photo Challenge: Ooh, Shiny theme, click here.

10 thoughts on “Weekly Photo Challenge: Ooh, Shiny — UT’s Pride of the Southland Band

  1. Pingback: Shiny: Selfie with Seals | What's (in) the picture?

      1. Curt Mekemson

        I’ll pass the word on to Peggy, Rusha. 🙂 And having fun at Burning Man is almost guaranteed. Except of course for the heat and mega-duststorms…. –Curt

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