Video: Marching band the new soundtrack of Richards football

Given his background and family history, it’s no wonder new Richards High School band director Jordan Fansler finds himself at home on Friday fall nights in the bleachers of Korhonen Field.

The son of the band program director at Western Illinois University, Fansler graduated last year from the University of Illinois following four years with the famous Marching Illini.

“The four years I performed with the Marching Illini while I was studying music education helped me appreciate the amount of energy a marching band can bring to a football stadium by rousing the fans and community,” Fansler said.

To build on the traditions and quality education of predecessor Charles Martin, and perhaps start to build his own identity, Fansler decided to give the Richards band a larger role at home football games.

“The Richards band will learn how to produce the same energy and enthusiasm as a college marching band,” he said.

Anyone attending a game this season has noticed the difference.

“We’re going to produce the same energy as a college marching band, then rally our community around Bulldog spirit. You’ll see us at parades, pep-rallies, and football games, where I hope you’ll sing along, dance, and get excited about the awesome things happening every day at Richards,” he said.

Here's the Richards band performing at the St. Rita game last Friday:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g3V-zTLFA0k&t=5s