First of all this recording is the Michigan Symphony Band. I am not sure about this but I believe this was recorded live at Carnegie Hall. This band is probably the wordls greatest band. There are several world class bands, Eastmen Wind Ensemble, Sousa's Band, the Goldman Band, and a few other college bands, but in my opinion the Michigan Symphony Band is the best. All the Big Ten schools concert bands are excellent. This group is just superior to the rest. If you don't believe me check out the original LP recording which had reviews on the back after this performance. Any one who can't tell this band is extrodinary has no ear for music. I love the arrangements but I can understand how some might not like them. These are symphonic arrangements of the fight songs. If you expect to hear arrangements that you might hear at the game while you drink a beer and eat a hot dog this is probably not for you. No matter what you think of the arrangements the band is incedible. Anyone who loves the sound of a great concert band should enjoy this.
November 26, 2008 |  | U. of M. Band Plays "Big Ten" Fight Songs |  |
It doesn't get any better than this! The University of Michigan band, recognized for excellence throughout the world, playing the fight songs of the "Big Ten" universities is a must for every alumni and fan of these institutions. Play this CD every Saturday morning during the season, and you're "psyched" and ready for the game!
September 20, 2007 | | What did I expect, anyway? | |
Although the concert band in Ann Arbor puts in a yoeman-like performance, the arrangements are just awful. UM's band always seems to fumble the ball when it comes to arranging the fight songs of other teams in the Big T(elev)en, and that tendency shows through on this album. At least the concert band doesn't "jump-march" during their performance, so there isn't that annoying drop in tone, tenor and constancy every two beats, like there is at live performances.
With any luck, maybe Ohio State - the nation's best band - will put out a comparable CD. Once they play even an opposing team's fight song, they own it.
January 11, 2004As a member of a Big Ten marching band, I have had the good fortune to watch most of these groups perform live on the field on Saturday afternoons. These recordings would sound more at place on the soundtrack to the Nutcracker. There is great musicianship as would be expected from a Big Ten band, but these are not the legendary fight songs that I thought I was purchasing. Does anyone know of a compiliation of the Saturday versions of these great songs?
January 10, 2004Excellent symphonic band arrangements of some great favorites. These college kids are remarkable players. My only criticism is that some of the arrangements seem to make these marches into Broadway showstoppers and take excessive liberties with the original scores. Good audio quality for a recording made at the beginning of the digital era.
February 14, 2002More reviews at Amazon.com ...
(11 reviews)
