Who the #$%@ is the Penn Band?
The Penn Band was founded in 1897 and ever since has been one of the University's most progressive traditions. The organization is a part of the Department of Athletics at the University of Pennsylvania; like most of the other 50+ performing arts groups on the Penn Campus, the Penn Band has no affiliation with any academic department and is sponsored by the Vice Provost's Office for Undergraduate Life. The organization today is almost 130 members-strong and stands among the largest and most active student-run organizations on-campus, performing upwards of 100 times during the academic year and the guardians of all things 'Red and Blue.' The organization boasts a rich history of performance, including performances with the renowned band masters like John Phillip Sousa, Roland Seitz, and Edwin Franko Goldman, the first collegiate band to march in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, countless recordings, national broadcasts and concerts, and performing at the pleasure of numerous American presidents and state leaders.