This football season marks the tenth year that Syracuse University’s The Pride of the Orange marching band has been under the direction of Justin Mertz. Mertz was a member of the marching band before transitioning to band director which he explains gives him an “extra sense of responsibility.” Nathan Avrunin is proud to see the consistent progress and growth of his Alma mater’s marching band.
The Pride of the Orange is successful at breeding leaders like Mr. Avrunin. The system Mertz has in place for the marching band is to delegate responsibility to his 34 student leaders. Each section leader is responsible for teaching music and is ready for every marching show, allowing for ownership among leaders. These leadership opportunities are just some ways being part of a marching band helps give students the confidence they need to be successful after graduating.