Gardner-Webb Marching Bulldogs Take Fans to (Bruno) Mars

With Twice the Members, ‘Sound of the Springs’ Brings Energy to Music of Grammy Winner

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Less than three weeks ago, new and returning members of the Gardner-Webb University’s Marching Bulldogs gathered for the first time. After a whirlwind band camp and rehearsals on 90-degree days, the 60 musicians are enthusiastic about bringing the “Sound of the Springs” to Thursday’s home game against Wofford College at 7 p.m. in Spangler Stadium.

Director of Bands Dr. Sarah Fabian is impressed with the group’s dedication and hard work to memorize the halftime songs and drill, and music for the stands and pregame. “We’ve learned a lot of material quickly, and they’re all handling that really well,” she remarked. “We’re excited for Coach Cris Reisert and the new environment that he’s bringing. He got us all together during band camp, and I taught cheer, football, and band the words to the fight song. They’re going to come over when we win and do the fight song as one big group.”

Fabian is starting her third year with GWU. Through outreach and recruitment efforts, she’s doubled the size of the band since she arrived on campus. She writes the halftime show, taking inspiration from what’s trending. This year is a “Take me to Mars” rendition featuring the music of Bruno Mars. The Grammy award-winning artist has a new single with Lady Gaga that recently debuted at No. 1 on the Digital Song Sales Chart.

“We’re starting off with ‘24 Karat Magic,’ then we’ll do ‘Runaway Baby,’ and ‘Uptown Funk,’” Fabian described. “We will trickle in some different songs as we make our way throughout the season.”

“Runaway Baby” is one of Savannah Shaw’s favorite parts of the show. A freshman exercise science major, Shaw is a member of the dance section. “The halftime show is upbeat and groovy,” she shared. “You will see a lot of formation changes and hear wonderful music.”

Junior Boakye likes the opening number, “24K,” the best. “It is one of my favorite Bruno Mars’ songs,” noted the trumpet player and brass section leader. “I enjoy the part I’m playing and how it connects with everything else the rest of the band is playing.”

During games, Boakye adds to the energy by turning somersaults. “I participate in marching band, because I find enjoyment in being able to create the product we put out,” he said. “I also enjoy the family aspect of the marching band and how close of a bond we have with each other because of the time we put in. And, marching band also provides many opportunities that I would not be able to experience if I was not a part of it … like flying on a plane to Utah to play in March Madness (for women’s basketball).”

Senior Catlyn Whisenant said the high energy show is fun to perform. She plays the clarinet and is woodwind section leader. A criminal justice administration major with a minor in homeland security, Whisenant has been in marching bands since she was a high school freshman. “Even though it seems like a lot of work, the show is worth the wait and there’s no other feeling like hitting the right sets and playing the music people love during a performance,” she asserted. “My favorite part of the halftime show is playing the music and marching with my friends. I like how the drill matches the music, such as how we make a 24 for the song 24k.”

Dallas Gordy, a freshman trumpet player, is an enthusiastic newcomer. He is early to rehearsal and stays late. He spends a lot of time in the practice rooms. “The band is meant to bring the energy and support the team and even the crowd—and perform a show that captures the audience’s attention to pump them up for the next half of the game,” he offered. “I love what I do. I love the music. I love singing through an instrument. Music helps so many people with so many things, so even if it’s in a small way, I know I’m helping someone in the sea of people who watch.”

Senior Drum Major Hailey Rodden has been with Fabian for three years. Rodden knows the high standards that Fabian expects and is able to run the band through the warm up on her own. “She is absolutely phenomenal,” Fabian praised. “She’s one of those students that always thinks ahead.”

A music education major, Rodden aspires to be a band director and feels that her experience in marching band has prepared her for the future. She appreciates Fabian’s leadership and mentorship. “I have witnessed an establishment of culture under Dr. Fabian,” Rodden observed. “I feel that I am with a group of students who all have the same goals and all bring energy to everything we do.”

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.