UC Bearcat Bands en route to Egypt

A meme involving the C-paw among the pyramids soon followed, along with over 60 interested names on the sign-up sheet. Shortly after, students auditioned in a blind process — playing snippets of school songs called out in rapid succession — for the opportunity of a lifetime.

Whittled down to just 26 members of the marching band, director of bands Christopher Nichter and staff from UC International, the group will set off for a historic set of performances at FUE in mid-May.

For most U.S. band programs, travel is wholly dependent upon the success of athletic teams. International travel is an even rarer occasion, usually to locales with traditional parades, and takes months to years of planning.

However, because of FUE’s invitation, a portion of the UC marching band now has the opportunity to represent the University of Cincinnati far outside the walls of Nippert Stadium. 

Two days before takeoff, the students arrive back on campus for rehearsals—practicing drills for an unlined, outdoor courtyard instead of an American football field, running through their pep-tune repertoire and learning to work together as a much smaller group.

Then, they’re off for over a week. The journey to Cairo will take over a day between time changes, layovers and special baggage claim. Despite the daunting tasks ahead, the students are looking forward to the experience.

“It'll be awesome to see the raw excitement of the Egyptians,” noted Sara Marijolovic, a clarinetist in the band. “Here, Americans have a pre-formed opinion about band. This is something completely different, that's not very common.”

For two of the days, the band will play for students and faculty on FUE’s campus. Gameday favorites like Green Day’s “Holiday” or Paula Abdul’s “Cold Hearted” will likely make an appearance.

“Our hosts have asked us to really showcase the American collegiate experience, and that’s what we’re going to do,” said Nichter. “But we do have a few musical surprises to bridge between our cultures and show our gratitude for the experience. We’re all looking forward to this historic set of performances.”

Another two days will be filled with cultural adventures to museums, the Pyramids and even a dinner cruise on the Nile River. Throughout the rest of their time, band members and FUE students will connect and exchange cultures with one another.

Marijolovic notes that the combination of cultural exploration and exchange was a huge draw for her to sign up.

“I've always enjoyed studying ancient civilizations and never really thought that I would get the opportunity to go,” said Marijolovic. “But I am excited to get to talk to some students. I have a feeling the interactions will surprise me. And it will be nice to be able to share my experiences and see what they have to say about the U.S. and Cincinnati, too.”

The partnership between UC and FUE has always been unique, but this out-of-the-box cultural exchange continues to strengthen the relationship between the two universities. The performances have inspired the UC band members to broaden their horizons past the playing field — all the way to the Pyramids.

Featured image at top: The marching band forms a pyramid shape while practicing a special "pregame" performance. Photo/Natalie Ochmann