Our music teachers played an important role in our music journey. This Thanksgiving, the Michigan Marching Band wants to celebrate our wonderful music educators for all that they do.

Nothing compares to a gameday sunrise. Soft oranges and pinks that brighten into yellows and blues that reflect off the silver instruments. It's already starting to get warm.

“Something I really appreciate about the MMB is that we put an emphasis on friendship and collaboration in leadership, and we build a community through that leadership. The leaders that have inspired me most are the ones that make me feel valued and who are genuinely friends with mee and tke the time to get to know me as a person. That’s what I want to do in my role: I want to be their friend and make their college experience great, like others did for me.”

“Everyone can depend on one another," Singh said. "We can talk to one another and we support each other's achievements. We go to one another's concerts and events. We are not just confined to band; we are a family in every aspect.”

“We are competitors, but also friends. We all love each other and can’t wait to see where we all end up. . . It’s a cool little world we all share.”

Blake Brdak has been chosen to lead the 2023-24 Michigan Marching Band.

“Getting to know the students was the best part,” Zamora said. “Learning about what made students click. And it showed up in their schoolwork. They were more confident in their work. We would adjust the curriculum to give the students a valuable learning experience that was on pace with them.”

"I have also become much more outgoing. I wouldn't do public speaking, and now I am giving speeches and talking to people. It's something I still struggle with but I've improved a lot because I have that community. I am TBS president. I am roommates with the KKPSI president. It's super awesome to have that tight-knit family that wants the best for the band and works really hard."

"I loved chemistry and I've known I wanted to be an engineer since middle school," Ellis said. "I love the problem solving and the artistry involved in making the solution work in the best way possible.”

"It's so collaborative, so encouraging and there's so little judgement. There is no animosity—only love. Everyone wants to see one another improve.”

It's 7am on a gameday Saturday in Ann Arbor. The city is woken up by echoes of The Victors; the band has taken the field. But even before a single note has been played, there is activity on Elbel. The Michigan flags have been hard at work since 6am. Among them is sophomore Amy Tan.