A new pep band is turning up the volume on school spirit.
The dynamic group of Middle and Upper School students, led by Director of Bands Aaron Broadus, has already enhanced the Landon experience at pep rallies and the Homecoming varsity football game.
“Being involved and getting the students and fans pumped up with school spirit is a great rush,” Broadus said. “Seeing the excitement on their faces and the fun it brings out is priceless.”
Perched in the stands next to Landon’s student section, the ensemble performs classic pep songs as well as an energetic rendition of the school song, “Landon Forever.”
“I always wanted to be in a pep band,” said Band President Jack LiCalsi ’25. “I know a lot of guys on the football team and it’s exciting to be able to support them like this. I’m glad we started it this year so the seniors can get an opportunity to start to grow this program.”
Broadus, who joined Landon as the full-time Director of Bands in 2023, formed the pep band after hearing feedback from the Landon community that something was missing from the atmosphere at home games. He began rehearsing tunes with the Middle and Upper School band students this fall, and student percussionists traded their stationery instruments for marching drums.
LiCalsi, a trombone player, said he was proud of the band’s performance at Homecoming, especially considering the challenges of playing outside in the stands during a game, rather than on stage during a concert.
“We need to be extremely focused at all times and be ready to play on very short notice. We also need to deal with outside elements like wind,” LiCalsi said. “It was electric. With the noise of the crowd and the band playing, it just created such a cool atmosphere for anyone who was there.”
Looking ahead, Broadus aims for the pep band to be student-run and operated. He plans to assist with music and rehearsals, while students schedule their performances at games.
“The goal is for the pep band to perform at pep rallies, football, and basketball games,” said Broadus. “And to collaborate with student leadership on cheers.”