The family culture that is embedded in the Clemson University band is easily summarized in its motto.

"I AM BECAUSE WE ARE"

It's this tight-knit mindset that gives Clemson one of the most colorful collegiate marching band programs in the country. And the students of the Tiger band have accepted that culture as their own this season, which has included a trip to Glendale, Arizona, for the Fiesta Bowl on Dec. 31, and culminates in Tampa, Florida, with the College Football Playoff National Championship on Monday, Jan. 9.

Drumline section leader Charlotte Colt said the Clemson band is one big family, "especially within the drumline. I love that about [the band]."


Members of Clemson Band perform at the 2016 Fiesta Bowl Fanfest

Knowing how much work, practice, and travel it takes to field a marching band, one would think that most of the students who are in the Clemson band would be music education or performance majors.

But Clemson does not offer a traditional music degree.

There is only a handful of students who are in the performing arts degree program. Most of the band will go on to have careers in engineering or agriculture. Their love for marching, performing, and each other is what drives them to be in the Clemson band.

And the marching band is growing.



The 2016-17 version is the largest in school history, fielding 355 performers. Last spring marked the first time that Clemson had an indoor color guard program and traveled to Dayton, Ohio, for the World Championships.

It's that love for marching that is growing the Clemson band and keeps its members coming back year after year.

"They are all my bros. I love them," Colt said about her fellow drumline members.

Stay tuned for more exclusive coverage on FloMarching as the Clemson marching band turns its sights to Tampa for the CFP National Championship on Monday.


Dr. Mark Spede, the man responsible for the Clemson family culture

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