The University of Pennsylvania Band

Book excerpt: The University of Pennsylvania Band, among the first collegiate marching bands in the country, was founded in 1897. Ever since, it has been a cornerstone of student life on campus, serving as a guardian of musical traditions and all things red and blue. The University of Pennsylvania Band is a distinctive photographic collection tracing the evolution of the student-led organization from its start as the prototype for the modern collegiate marching band, through the dramatic social changes during the middle of the 20th century, to the comedic Ivy Leaguestyle "scramble" band it became towards the end of its first 100 years. By following the evolution of the band, this pictorial collection traces the changes that occurred within the student body over the decades, including times of war and social inequality.