Tony Falcone, Director, Cornhusker Marching Band
Last year’s trip to Orlando came on the twentieth anniversary of the CMB’s last performance at the Citrus Bowl. This year, it was a much more inauspicious one year anniversary that we celebrated, but it was a terrific trip nonetheless. The feeling of déjà vu was unmistakable as we stayed in the same hotel and rehearsed at the same high school football field as in 2011-12. The students “knew the ropes” as it were and their familiarity with the area helped them enjoy the attractions even more.
This year’s edition of the Orlando Citrus Parade was will be quite memorable, as it poured down rain for the entire time! Characteristically the students didn’t offer a single complaint, and we drew praise from parade officials and audience members alike for having had the forethought to use ponchos. We’ll all stick together, in all kinds of weather! The rain clouds departed for rehearsal that afternoon and we got to enjoy some Florida sunshine. Because of how the schedule worked over the weekend, there were no bowl responsibilities on Sunday. So, after a morning rehearsal, the Band had a free day to enjoy the many attractions Orlando has to offer.
New Years Eve began with a final rehearsal at Colonial High School, followed by gigs at the Capital One Bowl Kickoff Luncheon and an enthusiastic pep rally at Pointe Orlando. We then proceeded to Universal Studios to march through the park in the Macy’s Parade. The students had the remainder of the evening free in the park to ring in the New Year. New Years Day was GAME DAY! We checked out of our hotel then headed for the Citrus Bowl and our match-up with the University of Georgia Bulldogs. After performing for a corporate tailgate and our own Husker Huddle, we proceeded into the stadium for the game. The pregame and halftime performances were very energetic. Our halftime show featured the music of the Rolling Stones.
Following the game we changed into our “civvies”, loaded the semi, ate dinner and bussed back to Sanford Airport for our return to Lincoln. The students had a great time, performed well and exhibited the class that has come to be expected from “The Pride of All Nebraska.”
Please visit (and ‘like’) our Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/UNLBands where you’ll find a photo album from the trip, links to parade video and much more. While you’re online, click on over to Twitter and ‘follow’ us there too: www.twitter.com/UNLBands. As always, thank you for your support, and we look forward to seeing everyone at the 2013 Alumni Band Reunion!
