Sacramento State Marching Band is in the midst of a new and exciting era under first year Associate Director of Bands, Clay Redfield. Redfield will also direct the Hornet Revue Pep Band, the Winter Percussion, and Winter Guard program along with lecturing in Music Education.

Redfield is the first Sac State alumnus to become director of the marching band. He earned a Bachelor of Music Degree from Sac State in 1984. Afterwards, he earned a Masters of Arts and Letters degree from the American Band College of Southern Oregon University, as well as a Doctor of Musical Arts degree of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Previously, he served as Fine Arts Division Chairman and Director of Bands at Eastern Arizona College. He also has experience in teaching and leading music programs in public schools in Nevada.

That’s only beginning. Within two short years during his stay at Eastern Arizona College, he grew the program of 32 students in 2005 to 76 in 2007. With the education background and teaching experience, Redfield tries to incorporate everything he has learned into his own music philosophy.

“I studied under great professors and mentors everywhere I went,” Redfield said. “And I continue to learn something new every day. Each day is different, and I’m constantly improving my philosophy.”

He has ambitious goals, three to be exact. Redfield will look to increase the size of the music program by providing a chance to all students who may be interested, regardless of major. “I really want to make game days here special, have students involved, and really make events entertaining,” Redfield said.

Another goal Redfield will work towards is to create not only performance opportunities for students, but also a social opportunity as well. “I look forward to establishing a social network within the music program,” Redfield explained. “I want to create a program for all students, not just music majors, to enjoy and interact socially.”

The third goal for Redfield is to become a role model and mentor to students who have aspirations in musical education.

Along with goals and his skill to build programs, Redfield also brings his passion and love for music.

“My love for music and pageantry allows me to really enjoy directing marching bands,” he said.

Pageantry is the combination of visual and musical elements. One example of pageantry is flags, dancing, and cheering incorporated into the marching band for entertainment.

Another reason for Redfield is his desire to be creative and open-minded with students.

“Redfield is very engaging and open-minded,” said Brittany Burris, a student of Redfield. “He has really come in and united everyone; has created a family-like environment.”

Redfield also looks forward to really enjoying and creating a special year for the marching band. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Sac State Marching Band. To celebrate, there will be a special half-time show performed by the marching band at the last home football game of the season, on Nov. 15.

This semester, the marching band is looking to play two different styles of music. The first show will feature classic Mo-town music. The second show will feature music from the video game Guitar Hero.

“This is where I enjoy getting creative,” Redfield explained. “It is fun to come up with new ideas and build on it. It will be interesting to incorporate the movements and dancing for something like Guitar Hero.”

Redfield then states that he tries to be open-minded and welcoming of different dance styles, even from Guitar Hero.

“I try to keep an open mind,” Redfield said about what style of music he prefers to direct.. “I listen to everything I can get my hands on.”

The Sacramento State Marching Band is looking to grow and create a fun and social environment for the music program under the guidance of Redfield.

“Redfield directs very well,” Ashley Redfield said. “They way he conducts is great, and he is also very good communicating with students.”

Before every performance he directs, Redfield always recites the same encouraging and motivating speech to the band.

“I will wish you good luck in your performance. But, I don’t believe in luck. However, I do believe in skill, so I wish you good skill.”

Ronnie Nurss can be contacted at [email protected]