UVA Wise Marching Band Recruiting for Band Camp, Kicks off New Season

The UVA Wise marching band, the Marching Highland Cavaliers, will hold their band camp from August 6 to 13, after which they will kick off a full season of performances. All incoming UVA Wise students, as well as students attending Mountain Empire Community College, are encouraged to become a member of the band, which performs at UVA Wise at home football games at the College’s Smith Stadium.

The Marching Highland Cavaliers performances begin on September 1 with their traditional Papa Joe Smiddy Tribute Show as the UVA Wise football team takes on Ferrum College at 7 p.m. As always, the show will feature the Papa Joe Smiddy Bluegrass Band directed by Chris Rose,  UVA Wise guitar ensemble director and instructor.

This year, the tradition will take a new twist with the band using new music blending the bluegrass band with the marching band. 

On October 1 and 15 the Marching Cavs will perform rock and roll shows at halftime during football games at 3 p.m. and noon, respectively. These two shows will have a special mystery guest performer.

The band will close out the season on October 29 hosting Band Day, Senior Day and Military Appreciation Day during a noon football game. During this performance, the Marching Cavs host their annual band day, inviting all area bands to come for a combined band performance honoring our armed forces with Armed Forces on Parade. Visiting bands will be treated to a free meal prior to the game. 

The Marching Highland Cavaliers are directed by Richard Galyean, Director of Bands; Jenny Collins, Woodwind and Colorguard Director; Jason Bailey, Brass Director; and Michael Lester, Percussion Director. For information on band camp or how to become a Marching Highland Cavalier, email bands@uvawise.edu or call 276-328-0235.