The Ohio University Marching 110
| Ohio University Marching 110 | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| School | Ohio University |
| Location | Athens, Ohio |
| Conference | Mid-American Conference |
| Founded | 1923 |
| Director | Dr. Richard Suk |
| Members | 240 |
| Fight song | "Stand Up and Cheer!" |
Ohio University Marching 110 is the official marching band of Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, founded in 1923. The nickname Marching 110 is a reference to the band's original number of members. The 2017 band consists of 240 members. It represents the University at various athletic functions and other events, including over 40 NFL Halftime shows.
In 1923, a student by the name of Homer Baird started the first marching band at Ohio University. In 1966, Gene Thrailkill joined the OU faculty as the Director of Bands at Ohio University. Thrailkill brought with him a new high-energy marching style and new uniform, both of which remain the staple of the Marching 110 today. Along with the style switch, Thrailkill also removed all women and majorettes from the band, keeping one Drum Major. In 1967 the band became known as the "100 Marching Men of Ohio," and the following year the 110 members of the band were coined the "110 Marching Men of Ohio," the 110 symbolized by the Marching 110 of today. In 1975, women were re-admitted to the Marching Band, and remain so today. The Ohio University Marching 110 was nominated as the best college marching band in the nation by CollegeSports-Fans.com [1] in September 2007 and ranked as one of the "100 Things We Can't Wait To See This College Football Season" by Cinema News [2] in August 2010. The Marching 110 also participated in the 2010 Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California.
After arriving at Ohio University in 1966, Gene Thrailkill made drastic changes to the Ohio University Marching Band. While there were some controversial changes having to do with membership, he ultimately hoped to increase the band's size from approximately 85 members. The following fall, 112 marchers were chosen to march in the new band. Other changes included new traditional uniforms and a new style for the band. With popular music of the day, hard-driving marching and a great "esprit-de-corps," the 110 Marching Men of Ohio began "The Most Exciting Band in the Land." Thrailkill was also the originator of the 110's "Diamond Ohio" formation at Ohio University. After The Ohio State University Marching Band used "Diamond Ohio" ,Thrailkill pushed for the "Diamond Ohio" formation to give the band its own trademark. Thrailkill was director of bands until 1971. Prior to his arrival to Ohio University in 1966, Thrailkill served as director of instrumental music for the New Lebanon Public Schools (Ohio). He holds a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Michigan and a Master of Music degree from Ohio University. In 2000 Coach Thrailkill retired as Regents Professor and Professor of Music at The University of Oklahoma where he took over in 1971. He also served as Director of University Bands and headed the extensive OU band program. The Marching 110 was honored to have Mr. Thrailkill speak and guest conduct the 110 at Homecoming 2001. Mr. Thrailkill attended the Thursday, Friday and Saturday morning practices of the Marching 110, as well as the new OUMB Society of Alumni & Friends Display Case dedication ceremony in Memorial Auditorium.
...
Wikipedia