Michigan State’s Marching Band Went To Europe And The Locals’ Ears Are Still Ringing
Everyone knows that I played trombone in the Spartan Marching Band during my four years at Michigan State. That, along with my penchant for unorthodox opinions on sports, is my claim to fame.
So when a listener called in to ask me about the SMB's recent trip to Europe, I was elated — talking about the band isn't exactly the kind of content that regularly goes on my show sheet. It gave me an opportunity to plug the SMB's appearance throughout the Mid Europe Festival, which is considered to be one of the largest music festivals in the world.
I've been following along as the SMB has shared various videos of their multiple performances in Austria. But my absolute, hands-down favorite bit of media to come from the band's trip was this tweet from someone who lives in Vienna:
The picture in my mind's eye is hysterical. Just imagine the people who live and work in Vienna on a random July afternoon being greeted by the deafening sounds of 300-some Spartans blaring "Victory For MSU" and screaming out the various chants of the band's signature drum cadence and march, "The Series." I imagine the Viennese sitting in their quiet coffee shops and offices, going about their normal workday, when all of a sudden they hear a chorus of 300-plus voices screaming, "GO STATE, BEAT THE BRONCOS!" It had to be an alarming, confusing experience.
Apparently, the SMB left a lasting impression.
I also love that MSU Twitter did not disappoint in its response to this Austrian's questions.
MSU Twitter also did a great job in dealing with a predictable response from our rodent neighbors to the southeast.
Even in Europe, Michigan State can't escape its mouth-breathing sibling. It just goes to show that stupid doesn't respect borders.