In two short years, the Bowling Green State University Falcon Marching Band has experienced remarkable growth both in size and stature, becoming one of the largest marching bands in the nation.

With an astounding 425 members this season, the Falcon Marching Band is also the largest in BGSU history — generating widespread support and enthusiasm across the University and larger community.

The band, known for its inclusive and welcoming environment, has attracted students from diverse academic backgrounds, with 75% of its members pursuing degrees outside of music.

"We are thrilled to have such a large and diverse group of dedicated students in this year's Falcon Marching Band," said Jon Waters, a professor and the director of marching and athletic bands. "From the football field to parades and everywhere in between, the Falcon Marching Band provides the soundtrack to BGSU, and it all starts with our students, who represent nearly every college at the University. 

“Empowered by a BGSU education, Falcon Marching Band students gain valuable experience as musicians and build meaningful skills and connections with each other. We are honored to continue the band's legacy with a record number of students this fall."

The Jon Waters effect

The Falcon Marching Band’s incredible growth coincides with the tenure of Waters, who took over in summer 2022. At the time, around 90 students had signed up for the band.

The band has grown by hundreds of students each year since then, which is indicative of the energy, creativity and leadership Waters has brought to the largest student organization on campus.

Now more than ever, students are eager to be part of the vibrant BGSU student experience, ranked No. 1 in Ohio among public universities by The Wall Street Journal.

“Marching band is important to our students’ growth and development and their experience at BGSU,” Waters said. “At my core, I’m passionate about helping students become good citizens, and we just happen to get to do that through music. The students learn to play and make music and, at the same time, learn collaboration, responsibility, problem-solving and leadership skills. We provide them with a life experience that prepares them for the world.

“There is no better student experience than at BGSU.”

Student experience

The philosophy of supporting students’ growth in areas beyond their musical talent resonates with many marching band members, including BGSU junior Maddie Grisier, a trumpet section leader.

Grisier, who joined Falcon Marching Band in 2022, said she has become a more empathetic leader, valuing Waters’ people-first sentiment. 

As a section leader, Grisier, a nursing major, helps lead a team of about 70 trumpet players alongside three other section leaders. In addition to enhancing the group’s musical performance, Grisier also prioritizes the group's well-being, encouraging students to reach out if they need help.

“We want to make sure everyone is mentally and physically healthy,” she said. “At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what instrument you play or what section you’re in, we’re all here for each other. Falcon Marching Band truly is a family.”

Brothers Elijah and Broden Reynolds credit the Falcon Marching Band with making an indelible impact on their lives socially and academically. They’ve formed friendships, made lasting memories and built confidence and leadership skills.

The siblings said their involvement in marching band has also taught them how to adapt, learn quickly and value the role of preparation in success.

“In marching band, we’re under pressure to perform to the best of our abilities,” Broden Reynolds said. “We’re training to perform in front of thousands of people, and that level of preparation carries over into the classroom. It makes preparing for an exam a less overwhelming experience. It’s really elevated me as a person and a BGSU student.”

Adding to his brother’s sentiments, Elijah Reynolds said, “It’s been the greatest experience in my four years at BGSU. I’m so proud to be a member of the Falcon Marching Band.”