FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 19, 2013

CONTACT: ALYCIA CHANIN PHONE NUMBER: (240) 678-0088 EMAIL: ACHAN@VERIZON.NET

Mighty Sound of Maryland performs at 2013 Presidential Inauguration

Inaugural committee selects University of Marylands marching band out of 1,000 applicants to march in Inaugural Parade. COLLEGE PARK, Md. The Mighty Sound of Maryland will march in the Presidential Inaugural Parade on Jan. 21, 2013, at 3 p.m. in Washington, D.C. The band will begin its route at the U.S. Capitol, and continue to march down Pennsylvania Avenue toward the Presidential Box and White House. Band directors have chosen to perform the Washington Post March and University of Marylands Victory Song during their route. I am so honored and thrilled to be given this opportunity to represent The University of Maryland to our president, nation and world, said Lowell Richmond Sparks, Director of Bands. People across the globe will be watching this event, and I cannot wait to showcase the talent and pride of this marching band it is something truly exceptional. The Inaugural Committee notified the band only two weeks before the parade, leaving little time for rehearsal. Students have practiced the music individually during winter break, and will return to campus three days early for full ensemble rehearsals. Resident Life has offered early move-in dates and meal plans for those students who live on campus. I couldnt believe it when Dr. Sparks told us we were playing in the Inaugural Parade, says senior government major Stephanie Groff. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity I never thought I would have. What makes this even better is that I get to share it with my best friends. This performance also marks the debut of the bands new Maryland Pride uniforms. For the past three years, students, directors and the athletic department fundraised for new uniforms, and once university officials gave approval, students began the design process. The new uniforms feature aspects from the Maryland state flag, and are made with lighter material. What better opportunity than the Presidential Inauguration to show off our brand new uniforms? said freshman English major Becca Newkirk. I cant wait to hear the feedback on our new look from the audience. I hope Sasha and Malia approve! (more)

The band will step off at 3 p.m. in full uniform in front of the U.S. Capitol on Inauguration Day. Individuals interested in viewing this performance can watch it on any major television news network, or in person at Pennsylvania Avenue. For further band related inquires, please contact Alycia Chanin at (240) 678-0088 or achan@verizon.net. *** The Mighty Sound of Maryland is the official marching band of the University of Maryland. It was founded in 1908, and performs pregame and halftime shows at all Maryland Terrapins football home games.