The Grinnell College Pep Band has been bringing a dose of school spirit to sporting events. Clad in matching t-shirts and performing energetic songs, the club has set out to contribute to the College’s school spirit and have fun doing it.
The club was originally founded by Abigail Davison `26 in her first semester at Grinnell. “I liked marching band, I just liked to play my instrument,” Davison said. The club originally started with five people, the minimum number for a club to be approved, Davison said. “It was really fun, even when it was just the five of us,” said Jules Wood `25, one of the original five members of the club.
“We play peppy songs,” Davison said, describing the club’s main activity. The club rehearses and performs at football and basketball games. “We don’t travel with the teams, but we do do some home games,” said Ellie Bauer `26, the co-leader and treasurer of the club.
“Our goal as a club is to bring joy and entertainment to the crowd at football games and basketball games,” Davison said, quoting the club’s constitution. “Most of our goals are to have a good time … support some school spirit, encourage people to go to games,” Bauer said.
One major goal for Davison has been to make the experience fun and enjoyable for all members of the club. She noted that other ensembles that she had been a part of had been stressful for her. “I didn’t want this to be stressful for anybody, I really wanted people to want to come here,” Davison said.
Davison has gained experience in music and leadership from her time leading the club. “I’ve learned to let these people have a say in what they’re doing and also to … trust myself,” Davison said. “I’m doing my best, and that’s all that really anyone can do.” she added.
Club members also have their reasons for participating. “I was in marching band in high school, and I had some leadership positions there, and I thought it’d be interesting to be part of that here in Grinnell,” said Darian Vazquez `27, a member of the club. “I wanna be here, and I like playing with other people,” he added. “It’s an opportunity to perform music … in a very low-key scenario, in a setting where people are not judgmental,” said Gabriela Roznawska `26, another member.
The Grinnell Pep Band meets for rehearsals on Saturdays from 2-3 p.m. and Wednesdays from 6-7 p.m. in Bucksbaum 152. “We welcome anyone with any musical talent, even if you think it’s a little bit,” Davison said. The band will be performing next at Grinnell’s home football game against Monmouth College on Oct. 12.
