Traditions of the Panther Marching Band
Traditions are a part of any successful organization. Some traditions have a rich history while others are new and vibrant. There are five traditional EIU songs that every PMB member learns to sing and play during pre-season camp: Alma Mater (For Us Arose), the Eastern State March (Fight Song), I’m So Glad, Hot Time, and Panther War Chant. The Eastern State March has been an audience favorite since 1949, and was composed by former Music Department Chair Dr. Earl Boyd. In 2012, Panther Nation was introduced to the "Panther War Chant," which instantly became a staple for EIU students, administration, and the community. Also, at the conclusion of every Friday practice and performance, the Panther Marching Band "circle-up" and perform the EIU Alma Mater, which strengthens our commitment to each other as individuals and bonds our group as a true musical family.
Clock Tower
During Pre-Season Camp each year and after every performance, the Panther Marching Band encircles the Clock Tower for a time of team building and community. Every hour, the Clock Tower plays the Alma Mater, echoing the song over the entire campus.
Booth Library and the "Panther Prowl"
One hour before each home football game, the Panther Marching Band stands on the steps of Booth Library and performs for their fans. After performing both traditional music and selections for the halftime show, PMB leads the EIU Cheerleaders, Pink Panthers, and the EIU football coach and team to O'Brien Stadium in the Panther Prowl. Just be careful where you stand! The low brass likes to change sides!
Alma Mater
For us arose thy walls and towers;
Their beauty, strength, and grace are ours.
The hills and prairies at thy feet
For us in lovely landscape meet.
So must our hearts remember thee,
So may our lives our tribute be;
Strong, true, and beautiful and brave and free,
So shall our hearts, our hearts, remember thee.
Eastern State March
We are loyal EIU, we’re loyal and true-
Though the odds be great or small
We’ll still be cheering you (rah! rah!)
So fight you Panthers for the glory of our dear name
Fight on for Eastern, come on Panthers let’s win this game!
I'm So Glad
I’m so glad/I go to EIU (3x)
Singin’ “Glory Hallelujah”!
I go to EIU!
Hot Time
Late one night
When we were all in bed
Old Mother Leary
Left a lantern in the shed
And when the cow kicked it over,
She winked her eye and said,
"There’ll be a hot time
In the old town, tonight."
Panther War Chant
You don't wanna go to war
With the Panthers
Don't start no stuff there'll be no stuff.
