Tennessee Tech University’s Golden Eagle Marching Band topped last year’s all-time record to again reach its largest size in university history. The ensemble, led by Director of Bands Jeffrey Miller, kicked off the fall semester with 221 members.

The ever-growing roster includes more than 100 new students, something Miller says brings renewed “energy and excitement” to campus.

“Our instructional staff, student leaders and veteran members have done an excellent job educating and welcoming our new members into the Golden Eagle Marching Band family,” said Miller.

But when fans see the Golden Eagle Marching Band performing at football games throughout the fall, its size won’t be the only thing they notice. This year, the band is debuting new uniforms for the first time in 13 years, thanks in part to generous support from the office of Tech President Phil Oldham.

“We approached President Oldham with our need, and he graciously agreed to provide the funds for the marching band’s new uniforms,” Miller explained. “We are so thankful for not only his financial support but for his overall enthusiasm for the Golden Eagle Marching Band.”

Miller adds that the band’s uniform is “an important part of our identity as an ensemble, but also as ambassadors for the university.”  The uniforms are designed by DeMoulin Brothers, the oldest and largest manufacturer of music performance group apparel in the world.

“Revealing the uniforms to the students was certainly one of the most exciting moments thus far, but moreover, seeing everyone fully dressed in the new uniforms was a truly inspiring moment,” Miller recalled.

With the band’s new attire now in place, Miller is working to perfect the band’s halftime show with the help of his students’ feedback.

“To give the students more ownership of the show, in the spring semester, I presented them three options and had them vote for the one they liked the best,” said Miller. “This year’s halftime show displays the power of Latin jazz music and has been an absolute blast to prepare so far!”

For Miller, the developments are all part of a momentous six years at the band’s helm. On his watch, the band has not only set back-to-back numerical records and secured new uniforms, but also welcomed the return of the color guard in 2023 for the first time in more than a decade. Miller says the students are what drive his passion to continually elevate the band program.

“Simply put, ‘band kids’ are some of the best people on the face of the planet,” concluded Miller. “They work hard, they’re enthusiastic and they’re loyal to the university. If you want to witness their enthusiasm first-hand, I invite you to sit by us at a game!”

Learn more about the School of Music at Tech, including the Golden Eagle Marching Band, by visiting https://www.tntech.edu/fine-arts/music/index.php.