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With a history of standout performances and a dedicated leadership team, the Marching 110 continues to live up to their motto: 鈥淏etter than the best ever.鈥� As the University鈥檚 storied marching band winds up a summer filled with international travel and competition wins, they look forward to the annual training week in August, along with another season of memorable performances.

Ryan Bunyard, the current Field Commander, gives us the scoop on the band鈥檚 summer routine, their international trip, and what it鈥檚 like leading the 110.

In July, the band headed to London for a week of performance and competition. It was an extra training opportunity that turned into a global stage. They held performances at Tower Bridge and participated in the with bands from around the world. They also played at Excel London and at the Hampton Court Palace, and won the Drumline London battle, taking home the King鈥檚 Shield. 

鈥淚t was fantastic to show off what the 110 can do on a global stage,鈥� Bunyard says. 鈥淟ondon was not just a performance; it was an amazing learning experience for everyone.鈥�

Up next for the 110 is training week, which takes place right before fall semester starts. Freshmen learn the band鈥檚 signature marching style while returning members refine their moves. By midweek, everyone comes together, rehearsing marching and music.

鈥淭he freshmen are no longer freshmen, they are part of the band,鈥� Bunyard says.

This unity is showcased in their first show of the season, when the band performs for the incoming students, giving them a taste of what the 110 is all about.

The Marching 110鈥檚 summer adventures London wasn鈥檛 their first experience as a traveling band. Back in the States, the band has a history of memorable trips that contribute to their rich tradition of performances and camaraderie.

One standout experience was their trip to Myrtle Beach, SC when the football team competed in the Myrtle Beach Bowl in 2023.

鈥淲e took the entire band, approximately 250 people, to Myrtle Beach, stayed in a hotel on the beach, and performed at halftime,鈥� Bunyard recalls. The trip was more than just a performance; it was a chance for the band to bond and enjoy some time together away from the regular routine.

Bunyard says another notable experience was the Arizona Bowl in Tucson in 2022. While the entire band couldn鈥檛 make the trip due to logistical constraints, Bunyard was fortunate enough to attend.

鈥淚t was a bit challenging because transporting approximately 100 people is no small feat,鈥� he explains. 鈥淏ut it was a great experience to support the football team and represent the band in a different state.鈥�

In addition to these events, the Marching 110 frequently participates in high school marching band festivals around Ohio. These performances are designed to showcase their skills and inspire young musicians.

鈥淲e love going to these festivals and showing high school students what we鈥檙e all about,鈥� Bunyard says. 鈥淚t鈥檚 always great to see their excitement and enthusiasm.鈥�

As field commander, Bunyard鈥檚 job is all about teaching, perfecting the marching style, and keeping the band鈥檚 visual flair sharp. He鈥檚 excited for the new season and ready to meet all the new members joining the band.

鈥淚鈥檓 just as much a band member as anyone else, but I also have the responsibility of leading and providing that knowledge and motivation,鈥� Bunyard explains.

The upcoming season promises more great performances and unforgettable moments, thanks to the passion and dedication of everyone involved.