The football players and coaches aren't the only ones getting ready for the game at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City on November 15. The Washburn University Marching Blues have been preparing for the big day since the second week of August.
Caitlyn Priddy, trumpet section leader, is excited about the opportunity to play at Arrowhead. Fans can join her at the NFL's loudest stadium by ordering tickets
online or calling 785-670-BODS.
"It's a huge deal," she said "I've been to the stadium, but I've never stepped foot on the field. I think seeing the big crowd out there in the stands cheering us and the football team on will be a really awesome experience."
Priddy is a senior majoring in elementary education and minoring in music. She has been a part of the Marching Blues since her freshmen year, and she said one of her favorite things about being involved has been the immediate connections she's made with other members.
Leading sectionals is one of her main responsibilities. She also enjoys planning out-of-class events that allow her to spend time with the other 13 trumpet players in the band. Previous events have included a meditation night, a swimming and breath control event and a chili feed.
Michael Mapp, director of the Marching Blues and an assistant professor of music, believes that Priddy is an excellent leader.
"I think what is so great about her leadership quality is that she is a calm and collected person who also serves as a great example for her peers," he said.
The Marching Blues started preparing their pre-game show for the Arrowhead game at their summer band camp during the week of Aug. 11-17. They also have rehearsals every Wednesday and Friday.
Outside of the Marching Blues, Priddy is the editor and the treasurer and fundraising chair for the Washburn chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota (SAI), a women's music fraternity.
She is also the president of the Washburn University Jazz Coalition and a member of Washburn Jazz Ensemble I. She was previously the president of the Washburn Association of Bands, where she helped bring professional performers and musicians to Washburn to work with the bands and ensembles.
Priddy is from Topeka. After graduating in May 2016, she hopes to find a job teaching kindergarten in an elementary school. She is also considering pursing a master's degree in child psychology. She said she plans to incorporate her love of music into her teaching strategies.
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