In my two years with Smith it became near impossible to get any underclassmen to let loose with us. I know band is about more than partying, but I felt it hurt the comraderie on the practice field as well. I'm still best friends with people from band more because of the parties than anything else. It would make me sad if noone went to Buffalo, Agent Orange, or full band parties anymore.
When freshmen show up and are treated just like they were in high school band, it makes it tough for them to realize theres more to it than practice and gameday.
That said, before Smith got there, there were a lot of people just content with walking around and barely playing their instruments. It got old at times since I was much more of a perfectionist than that.
I'm thinking that an alum will probably be able to find the best of both worlds.
EDIT: Crap I miss band.
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