Under the leadership of director George N. Parks, the University of Massachusetts Minuteman Marching Band has dominated the collegiate marching band scene for decades, and 2003 is proving to be no exception.

After 10 grueling days of practice at Band Camp, the students of the UMMB wasted no time hitting the field. They premiered their show at a barbeque for family and friends on Aug. 29 and then welcomed the UMass class of 2007 just two days later at Frosh Fest with a powerful and electrifying performance.

Receiving national recognition for their continued excellence, the members of the marching band are the recipients of the prestigious Sudler Trophy and have performed at two Presidential Inaugural parades. This season, they have already traveled to such exotic locations as Allentown, Penn. (pictured above) and Piscataway, N.J. Known as the “The Power and Class of New England.” Clearly, the UMMB has yet again secured its place on the top-rung of marching bands nationwide.

As the season goes on, the band will be headed down to the University of Delaware to perform, as well as putting on an exhibition performance at the Massachusetts Instrumental and Choral Conductors Association High School Band Festival in Framingham, Mass. But for those who would like to catch the band on their own turf, the Minutemen can be found at almost any of the upcoming home football games, bringing excitement and enthusiasm to the crowds at McGuirk Stadium.