TRUMPETS
The trumpet section is the largest in the band, making it the most dynamic and exciting section, full of so many wonderful people. Every member is supportive of one another both on and off the field. The trumpet section is a tight-knit community full of laughter and lifelong friendships.
Eight rank leaders and one section leader make up the student leaders of the trumpet section.
Prospective students are encouraged to reach out to their instrument’s section leader for the 2024-25 season to ask questions about auditioning or to learn more about their section and the ensemble. Please use the subject line “MMB Prospective Member Questions” when emailing section leaders.
Rory McDaniel - mmb.trumpets@umich.edu
“The trumpet section is like a huge family. It may seem intimidating with almost 70 others in the section, but you’ll get to know almost every single one of them. I wouldn’t have had the college experience I’ve had without them, nor the marching band. I’m really glad I decided to audition for the band.”
— Blake Furtaw
“The trumpet section is full of people from all walks of life. If you need help with a class, there is a trumpet who has taken it. If you are feeling down, someone will be there to tell you jokes and do silly dances until you smile. The trumpet section never fails to support one another. We are always creating such good memories.”
— Andrea Elsholz
WHAT IS THE TRUMPET SECTION’s favorite…
part of band week?
Towards the end of Band Week, we have a milkshake night where trumpets in the section get to share stories they had in the MMB, with college, or another story. However, this past year, we were given 30 more milkshakes than we ordered from McDonalds. It was fun seeing all the milkshakes being taken out of the car for everyone to get one. Many of us were allowed to take a second one to go.
rehearsal tradition?
On Fridays, the Trumpets wear Maize! We love being able to look up at the screens in the Big House and see our entirely Maize portion of the Block M. The sea of Maize gets us all fired up for Game Day!
Once a week, the trumpets gather together and watch the latest episode of “The Great British Bakeoff." It is a lot of fun to watch the show with others from the section and to enjoy the desserts that everyone makes. The trumpets also have game nights, movie nights, a cider mill trip, and Michigan sports watch parties.
pregame meal?
Chicken Tenders, French Toast Casserole, Cheesy Potatoes, Pasta Bar, and of course, the apple crisp.
game day tradition?
On game days, the trumpets are responsible for hyping up the band through “fire-up” skits, with shenanigans and stunts featuring mascots from others schools. . .