The era of the Cavalier marching band unofficially kicked off Monday as future band director William Pease began a week-long visit to Charlottesville in hopes of sparking band interest.
Pease, currently the band director at Western Michigan University, officially will take the reins of Virginia's first marching band Nov. 25.
"I want [the band] to be an integral part of [Virginia] athletics," Pease said at a press conference.
The marching band is scheduled to begin performing at football games in 2004, but Pease hopes to have a band in place to play at men's and women's basketball games as early as January.
"I'd like to have a band together when the conference schedule begins," Pease said. "I want to have a home court advantage."
Pease noted that no members of the Virginia Pep Band have contacted him about joining, but he would welcome their contribution.
"They're welcome" Pease said. "Any student that's here is welcome to be in the marching band."
The new director will hold a meeting for those interested in joining the band tomorrow at 3:30 p.m. in Old Cabell Hall.
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