Inspired by the autumnal sight of Canada geese flying in formation, student band director Paul Spotts Emrick (ECE’1908) dared to do something in 1907 that no band had done before — break military ranks and form a special shape on the football field. The Block P he created was a marching-band milestone and commenced an […]
The tuba is known as the foundation of bands and orchestras, and for over a decade, Purdue has held an annual concert dedicated to the jumbo musical instrument. An international tradition envisioned by musician and tuba enthusiast Harvey Phillips, known to many as Mr. Tuba, TubaChristmas began in New York City in 1974. Phillips wanted […]
Legendary director celebrates 100th birthday In the spring of 1954 Purdue University was searching for a new director of bands to replace Paul “Spotts” Emrick who was retiring after 49 years. No one on the campus without a school of music felt qualified to make the decision. So Trustee J. Ralph Thompson sought advise from […]
It’s minutes before kickoff and the crowd at Ross-Ade Stadium has fallen to a whisper. Thousands of fans are on their feet with their heads angled upward, hearts swelling with pride, tears pooling in the corners of their eyes. A rich baritone voice fills the air, the solemnity of the words echoing out across campus. […]
