Band Pickles: Senior Show

Working hard to get my fill,
Everybody wants a thrill.
Build me up, Buttercup.
Don't break my heart.
Does your conscience bother you?
Tell the truth.
We've got to hold on to what we've got.
It doesn't make a difference if we make it or not.
Lay your weary head to rest.
Don't you cry no more.
That's the way I like it.

No, fortunately that is not a new hit single. The lyrics are however this year's final "All-American" Marching Band show music. For the first time in Purdue history, the senior class has gotten a chance to literally design all aspects of the show - from music to drill. For the past to weeks the band's senior show committee has been working hard to piece this final show together. The band will feature "Carry On Wayward Son," "Get Down Tonight/That's the Way (I Like It)," a medley of "Sweet Home Alabama," "Build Me Up Buttercup," and "Living on a Prayer," and "Don't Stop Believing." All songs come with their own drill sets with the exception of "Get Down Tonight." The band will start off with traditional drill for "Carry On Wayward Son" and will feature the trumpets and trombones in the center of the field. In the medley, the band will make formations corresponding with each song. "Sweet Home Alabama" drill consists of a house complete with windows and a doorknob. The very appropriate buttercup flower will be used for "Build Me Up Buttercup," while a cassette tape will be used for "Living on a Prayer." The finale of "Don't Stop Believing" features all styles of marching (glide step, low chair, and high chair) and proves to be a high-energy culmination for the 2008 season. Directly following the show, the seniors will make their way to the front of the field to the tune of "Auld Lang Syne" in order to hit the Big Bass Drum, symbolizing their final performance with the band.