Spirit of the Mountain’s Percussionists Find Creative Ways to Bond

The percussion section of LU’s marching band, The Spirit of the Mountain, cultivates community and boosts team morale through “hype” clothing.

“The ‘hype’ is kind of an extension of the group’s personalities and it changes every year,” said drumline captain and drum quad section leader Jonathan Byus.

Every year, the percussion sections of the marching band each wear their own “hype” during percussion and band camp and at practices throughout the season. Some sections wear bright hats or shirts, but for the quad section, it is often more elaborate. 

“The quads have been known for many years now for having some of the most ridiculous ‘hype’ and we try to outdo ourselves every year,” said Byus. “This year the quads just went to Walmart during a band camp meal break and created an outfit out of what we could find.”

This outfit includes short shorts, a hat, and a shirt that reads “Not Today, Satan.”

“We saw the ‘Not Today, Satan’ T-shirt and couldn’t help but laugh because it just wasn’t what we expected to find in a Walmart,” said Byus. “We also liked the message.”

Byus said Dr. Kerr, the band director, gave a devotion inspired by the message on the shirts.

“Marching band can at times be a very challenging activity, so it’s easy to get discouraged and frustrated,” said Byus. “Sometimes, it’s a good reminder to see ‘Not Today, Satan’ in order to remember why we’re out here doing the activity we love.”

The past few months have changed the way the band is able to practice together, as  COVID-19 regulations continuously shake things up. 

“Masks are required at all times, even when practicing,” said snare section leader Joseph Brown. “Throughout practice, it can be difficult with masks. Marching is very physical [and] requires special breathing and moving.”

Brown also commented on social distance between the sections.

“The drills are written to have a good amount of space between each of us,” said Brown. “More often than not, we are not in close proximity when marching. The main effect of the pandemic is everyone having to be aware and extra cautious with each other.”

The Spirit of the Mountain typically travels, but this season they will only play at home games.

More information about Liberty’s marching band can be found at https://www.liberty.edu/music/bands/marching-band/ or follow the band on Instagram @libertysotm.

Daniel Ellis is a Feature Reporter. Follow him on Twitter at @dnaieltyler.