Calvin University Launches New Marching Band Program Led by Veteran Director

msk23@calvin.edu — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 17:52:47 +0000

Calvin University Launches New Marching Band Program Led by Veteran Director msk23@calvin.edu Tue, 08/27/2024 - 13:52

Calvin University is proud to announce the launch of its first-ever marching band program under the leadership of seasoned band director Dr. Steve Sudduth. With 25 years of experience building and directing marching bands, Sudduth brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for connecting music programs with their communities.

Steve Sudduth began his career in 1999 and has successfully established and led marching bands at various institutions, including Dickinson State University in North Dakota. His extensive experience includes starting bands from the ground up, making him well suited to lead Calvin’s new initiative.

Creating Connections

“Marching bands hold a special place in the heart of a community,” said Sudduth. “They create a strong connection between the university and the public, offering a window into the vibrancy of a school’s music program. A successful marching band can uplift the identity of an institution and become a cherished tradition.”

Dr. Tiffany Engle, associate professor; co-chair, visual and performing arts; director of instrumental studies, expressed excitement about the new addition to the university's music offerings. “This marching band represents an exciting expansion of our music program. It will elevate the student experience and create lasting connections within Calvin. We believe that the band will quickly become a source of pride for our students, faculty, and alumni under Steve's direction.”

Building on a Tradition of Excellence

Sudduth emphasizes that the creation of this marching band is not just about music; it’s about building a lasting legacy. “For many years, Calvin has excelled in formal music programs, but the philosophy of a marching band has yet to be fully implemented. Our goal is to incorporate this new program into the very fabric of the university’s music tradition,” he explained.

The new marching band at Calvin will serve as a dynamic and visible representation of the university, contributing to the campus atmosphere like a successful athletic team. Sudduth is confident that the program will grow in size and impact, potentially reaching 60 to 80 members within three years.

When asked why he chose to join Calvin University, Sudduth highlighted the university’s reputation and the opportunity to reconnect with his family, who are settled in the Grand Rapids area. “Calvin is a respected institution, and this job allows me to contribute to a new tradition while staying close to home,” he said.

Gaining Momentum

Sudduth plans to build the program gradually, starting small but aiming for excellence. He also stressed the importance of incorporating faith into the marching band experience. “Music is a gift from God,” he said. “Our performances will reflect the belief of that power in music and provide that to the university in our performances.”

The excitement surrounding the new marching band is already palpable. “I’m most looking forward to seeing the joy and enthusiasm on the faces of our students as they participate in something new and meaningful,” Sudduth shared.

Calvin University invites students, alums, and the community to support this exciting new chapter in the university’s history. Contact Sudduth for more information.

Tue, 08/27/2024 - 12:00

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Football Team Awestruck By Locker Room Reveal

msk23@calvin.edu — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 01:00:56 +0000

Football Team Awestruck By Locker Room Reveal msk23@calvin.edu Tue, 08/13/2024 - 21:00

“Woah!”

“I like this. I like this.”

“Where’s my name?”

Great Anticipation

On Tuesday, August 13, 2024, dozens and dozens of football players rushed through the doors in great anticipation.

“Today, we woke up and it was like Christmas morning,” said Trent Figg, Calvin’s head football coach.

The gift the football team was taking all in had been delivered … and just on time.

“I think just this morning we got the occupancy permit,” said Jim Timmer, director of athletics at Calvin University.

The players of the inaugural Calvin University football team were taking in their new home.

“Let’s go baby, let’s go!”

“This is insane.”

Exceeding Expectations

The joyful and jaw-dropping expressions seen and heard from the players as they filed in clearly communicated they were not left wanting.

It's unreal,” said Winton Napier, a freshman offensive lineman from Twin Lake, Michigan (Whitehall High School). “This is incredible. Everything about this is top tier.”

“This blows me away, the way it came together with the graphics, the colors. We have great lighting and with the dark ceiling up there it gives it this really cool modern look,” said Paul VanderPloeg, a junior defensive back from Hudsonville, Michigan (Unity Christian High School). “I was blown away as soon as I entered the doors. Just so epic, and so intentional too.”

“This locker room is from a facilities standpoint as nice as you’ll find. Calvin has provided an incredible place for our players, for our student-athletes to call home,” said Figg.

Building Champions

“When Trent arrived on campus the energy that was already here for football increased ten-fold,” said Timmer. “I don’t think you put up a building like this without some confidence of where we are going at with the program.”

And the direction is clear: build champions.

“It says Champions really big on the wall,” said Figg. “In our program, we talk about being champions for life. When our kids graduate, we want them to walk out of our doors prepared to be a champion for the rest of their life. We talk about that in four areas, we talk about that on the field, in the classroom, in the community, and champions of their faith. We firmly believe that’s what it takes to build a well-rounded champion, and then you can talk about championships once you build individual champions.”

The inaugural football team will begin practicing on Thursday, which is 23 days from their Saturday, September 7 home opener against Oberlin College.

“We have 112 players that all reported to campus today. And I don’t know if I’ve ever been more excited for a fall camp,” said Figg.

Tue, 08/13/2024 - 12:00