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Lake Erie Thunder marching band to storm the field fall 2009

Marching band is first in history of Lake Erie College

Lake Erie College will now have a marching band to perform its fight song and complement the existing football program.

Under the direction of Jack Blazey, the Lake Erie Thunder marching band will take the field for the first time this fall. Blazey has 30 years of teaching experience within the Painesville City Schools. He performs with the Cleveland Orchestra Chorus and the Lakeland Civic Jazz Orchestra. Blazey also serves as an adjudicator for Ohio Music Education Association jazz festivals and solo and ensemble contests.

As an instructor, Blazey's bands have achieved much success, competing at O.M.E.A. state conventions, jazz festivals and state large group competitions. His students have continually received superior ratings at jazz festivals and solo and ensemble competitions. "I love directing marching band and am excited to be working at the college level," commented Blazey.

The Lake Erie Thunder will perform at all home football games, premiering Sept. 5, 2009, and will consist of flags, majorettes, horn line and percussion line. A band camp will be held on campus the week before fall classes begin.

“We are excited to bring this opportunity to our students, and equally thrilled that Jack Blazey will bring his extensive experience to our new marching band. The Lake Erie Thunder marching band will add even more excitement and pride to the Storm athletic program,” said Robin McDermott, vice president for enrollment management and student affairs.

For more information, visit http://www.lec.edu/marchingband.