Blog 8

One of the main themes I’ve focused on throughout my research is the difference between high school and college marching band. I was a part of high school marching band so I understand a lot already about this subculture, but I have never participated in college marching band which is the subculture I’m studying, Ball State’s marching band to be specific. So, though I am very familiar with one side of the marching band world, there is a part of this culture I know almost nothing about. As I keep learning I hope to uncover those differences to better understand all sides, especially my subculture. I think a lot of the people within my subculture recognized the differences between high school and college marching band. Most of them made this transition, though there are a few who have not. As a freshman it is difficult for some of them to get used to a new director, new friends, and a completely different way of running things. Throughout this learning process I have grown closer to some of the people in the band. We have a lot in common and spend most of the time talking about high school marching bands. Once people realized what high school I came from, we always have something to talk about. (My high school was considered one of the best there is by everyone in the band world) I don’t know if I would consider myself almost a part of their subculture, but I often feel very included. They’re really accepting of me because I share a love for their art.