A Legacy That Resonates
On July 3, 2025, Bryan “Deeb” Hilliard suffered a fatal heart attack while doing what he loved most: playing the trumpet. For those who knew him through the Minuteman Marching Band, there is perhaps no…
News
Thom Hannum named Pearl Director of Education
Pearl Corporation is excited to announce the addition of legendary marching percussion educator, Thom Hannum, as Director of Education. As one of the most respected voices in the world of marching percussion, Thom brings decades…
Eyes With Pride: From Amherst to America’s Largest Stage
A new documentary traces the journey of “Eyes With Pride” from its origins with George N. Parks at UMass to one of the nation’s premier high school marching band programs. The film explores how a…
Megan Cooney Featured on ‘Band Director Boot Camp’ Podcast
Former UMMB graduate assistant Megan Cooney was recently featured on Band Director Boot Camp (Season 4, Episode 17), where she shared insights from her unique experience building collegiate marching band programs from the ground up.…
Colby Vasquez Named Assistant Director of Bands at NC State
Congratulations to former UMMB teaching assistant and drill designer Colby Vasquez on his appointment as Assistant Director of Bands at North Carolina State University. A familiar name to many UMMB alumni, Vasquez earned his master’s…
Alex Beltran Named Associate Director of Bearcat Bands
The UMMB family is proud to congratulate alumnus Alex Beltran on his appointment as Associate Director of the University of Cincinnati Bearcat Bands. Beltran’s connection to the Minuteman Marching Band spans his entire collegiate career…
UMass Band Manager Lilly Barnett Loves Twirling
The Stadium Journey profile of UMass Minuteman Marching Band Manager and feature twirler Lilly Barnett offers a behind-the-scenes look at the dedication required to succeed in one of the country’s premier collegiate marching bands. Barnett…