Blue Thunder Marching Band’s “Trombone Chaos” is known for its high energy and fast pace that exhilarates the audience at pep rallies and football games alike. For both new and old members, trombone chaos is not just a tradition but a team building experience.
“Trombone Chaos” practice is held during Tutorial in the band room where members are assigned a number that dictates their movement (up or down). Band members usually start practicing slowly without trombones to ensure safety, but eventually they will bring it up to tempo and incorporate the actual trombones. To stay on beat, the trombone players follow the beat created by the drums, each count being a direction change. The performance is divided into two parts, with players expected to stay down for the rest of the segment if they mess up to ensure a safe and smooth performance.
This performance requires a lot of energy from the performers which creates a thrilling atmosphere for both the players and the crowd.
“My favorite part about Trombone Chaos is probably the ending part,” trombone player freshman David Velasco said. “When you feel your heart beating fast, the adrenaline and everyone clapping is why I like Trombone Chaos.”
Although it is optional, trombone player senior Penny Bian encourages newcomers in band to try out Trombone Chaos as it is a new and different experience.
“I would encourage anybody who wants to try something new to join because it’s just a really fun experience. It’s really different. I joined when I was a sophomore and I loved it ever since,” Bian said. “It’s really a chance to just bond with the other trombone players and the other members of your session.”
