WCU band performs at Steelers game

WCU band performs at Steelers home opener at Heinz Field

The West Chester University band took part in the Pittsburgh Steelers home opener on Sunday.

The 324-member West Chester University Golden Rams Marching Band took part in the pregame and halftime shows for the Pittsburgh Steelers home opener against the Cincinnatti Bengals at Heinz Field on Sunday.

During the band’s final practice in West Chester, assistant band director Greg Martin said the band had been planning to play at the Band of America Cavalcade event in nearby Monroeville Saturday so band officials contacted the Steelers and they were thrilled to have the band perform at the home opener.

In addition to the onfield performances, the Marching Rams took part in a parade to Heinz Field.

While in Pittsburgh the band slept at West Allegheny High School. Martin said each year the band takes part in a major performance. In 2015 the band took part in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The band returned to the West Chester campus Monday and will perform its routine called “Paint it Black” at the school’s football game on Saturday.

During the school year, the Marching Rams can often be heard practicing their routine behind the Swope Music Building on campus. Students spend nine hours a week practicing as a unit in addition to their daily instrument practice.

Seventy percent of band members are non-music majors.

PHOTOS BY PETE BANNAN — DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA The West Chester University Golden Rams Marching Band was invited to play the pregame and half-time show at the Pittsburgh Steelers home opener at Heinz Field Sunday. On Friday the band held a final practice at West Chester.