Blue Pride Opens Doors To Future Marching Tigers

Stillman College is opening the doors to one of its most electric traditions this week, giving high school students a rare chance to step inside the Blue Pride Marching Tiger Band during its highly anticipated Open Practice.

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Set for Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Lyles Band Hall, the event is designed to give future musicians more than just a glimpse. It is a full experience.

Director of Bands Eddie Fraction says the goal is simple: let students feel it for themselves.

“With our Open Practice coming up, I’m looking forward to high school students stepping into the energy, discipline, and culture of the Blue Pride Marching Tigers,” Fraction said. “This is more than just sitting in, this is your chance to experience what it feels like to be a part of something bigger.”

From the sound to the movement to the pride behind every note, Fraction says the program’s identity is something you have to witness up close.

“You’ll get a real look at our style, our sound, and the pride we carry every time we perform,” he said. “Which is very infectious.”

That impact is already reaching beyond campus. Fraction shared that a student who attended a previous open practice has since joined the band and is now helping expand its reach in the community.

While Open Practice is the centerpiece, it is part of Stillman’s Blue Pride Marching Tiger Band Week, which continues with events like the Battle of the Bands Friday at Birthright Gym and the Alumni Picnic Saturday at JROB Field.

But for students thinking about their future, Thursday night could be the moment that changes everything.