A new band that plays for fans at Lancer sporting events is open to everyone, not just music students, says its coordinator.

The Lancer Nation pep band, created this year by fourth-year music student Jocelyn Putnam, consists of about 25 musicians. It has so far played at football and basketball games, and plans to play for hockey games as well.

“I like that it’s a way for kids to play without the pressure of being graded,” Putnam says. “The music is easier, so it’s better for people who aren’t music majors.”

The University of Windsor has never had a pep band, but organizers hope to keep it running. The band received sheet music from a local marching band, and members have created their own twist by writing arrangements of popular songs such as the Iggy Azalea number Fancy, and Jessie J’s Price Tag.

“One of the trumpet players created an arrangement to Shake it off,” adds Putnam.

The band is open to any student who owns an instrument and played at the high school level. It meets for rehearsal every Monday from 7:30 to 9 p.m., in room 126, Music Building. Typically, varsity games are scheduled for Fridays and Saturdays.

For more information or to join, contact Putnam at Putnamj@uwindsor.ca.

— photo and article by Krisztina Kiraly