Angela Bohan started playing in the USI pep band when she was in seventh grade.
Both of her older sisters went to the university and participated in the pep band, which gave her an early introduction to the group and helped her in her decision to come to the school.
“A lot of (the people in pep band) were here when I was originally here. I was just kind of comfortable here,” the senior studio art major said. “Also, I came to visit my sisters, so I knew some of the professors and stuff.”
The pep band, which started in 1990, plays at each of the home basketball games during the school year.
Music is a huge part of Bohan’s family and she said it was expected she would play an instrument.
“My dad plays anything and everything,” she said. “He can literally just pick up an instrument and start playing it, never having seen it before, and all four of my siblings played in band in high school.”
Now after playing baritone for 10 years, Bohan found another family at the university.
“A lot of people know (pep band) exist(s), but they don’t realize how hard we work,” she said. “It’s basically a family and people don’t realize that.”
Bohan said she brings her nephew to almost every game and occasional practices.
“I can bring my nephew and not worry about what anyone is going to think,” she said.
Timothy Burklow said when he returned to the university to finish his degree he searched for something music related.
The business management major started playing trumpet 20 years ago and said a pep band on campus can add a lot to the campus culture.
“(Pep band) does not get utilized enough,” Burklow said.
He said there are things off campus the group could do such as finding opportunities to play in parades around town.
The group is a mix of all different ages, but Burklow said that should not stop people from wanting to join.
The band houses students, alumni and participants who otherwise would have no ties to the university.
“I wanted everyone I talked to know that it’s a friendly group,” he said. “If you want to do it don’t let that aspect keep you from doing it.”
The group does not have a tryout process or a fee for anyone who wants to participate.
“If you enjoy playing (music),” Burklow said, “come out and play.”
