The University’s commitment to music as an academic accomplishment and as a gift that enhances any event and every life is as old as the University itself (The Catalogue of the Academic Division, 1902 lists course offerings in Violin, Piano, and Voice). A dedication witnessed here by the photos of the 1904 band members with sartorial ensembles ready to enliven concert halls and sports stadiums.
Click to enlarge photo
Click to enlarge photo
In the 1930s and 40s Pep Bands in full uniform graced the fields of Multnomah Stadium for football games and marched on Broadway Street in downtown Portland for homecoming parades and pep rallies. In 1943, the Pep Band, along with students, faculty, staff, gathered at Union Station to send off the University’s enlisted reserve.
Though none embodied the vitality of music so much perhaps as the legendary Philip Cansler (trumpeter, band director, enthusiast, keeping Portland Purple from wig to shoes; 1980-2007). Today’s Pep Band supports crowd and teams at sporting events home and away. The beat continues on. Go Pilots!