BU Ram Band Hopes to Drum Up New Members

If you’ve ever been to a Bluefield University football game, chances are you’ve heard the BU Ram Band. The Ram Band plays an integral part in providing music for the university and its students, and the band is hoping to recruit a few new members to join its ensemble.

According to Dr. Andy Necessary, director of the Ram Band, the students involved in the group are hard workers, graciously giving Bluefield University its music.

“We have a great group of students who are very talented,” Dr. Necessary said. “They do what I ask them to do, and they’re a fun group.”

The Ram Band is not only a way to serve the college, but also a way to be active in the community. Just ask Ram Band member John Thompson.

“Band involvement brings students into the community, not only at the college but outside of it, as well,” Thompson said. “Music is becoming an increasingly less social event, but marching bands are helping bring music back into social and community settings.”

Dr. Necessary hopes that the Ram Band will be able to grow farther into the community by participating in parades and having a band presence in select BU basketball games this fall and winter. He and Thompson both also hope students on campus will consider joining the Ram Band.

“I would strongly encourage anyone who is interested in learning music or being a part of a wonderful community to join,” Thompson said. “The band is always willing to accept more people into the growing Ram Band.”

To join the Ram Band, one must be able to play an instrument. Dr. Necessary does offer lessons to students who have already learned how to play an instrument, but would be interested in further instruction. Students interested in being a part of the Ram Band should contact Dr. Necessary by email at anecessary@bluefield.edu.