The Mean Green Marching Machine of Mississippi Valley State University is calling on the support of alumni and the community to nab a chance at performing in a band showcase.
The 2010 Honda Battle of the Bands will be held Jan. 30. Eight bands from historically black colleges and universities will play at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta.
Fans can vote for their favorite bands, including Valley, at HondaBattleoftheBands.com.
Bands are selected by a combination of a general vote, votes from school presidents and school band directors.
The deadline for the general public online vote is Oct. 30. The eight bands selected will be announced Nov. 9.
“We want people to get out their and vote for us every day until the deadline,” said Michael Torregano, band director at Valley. “Use every e-mail account. If you have 10, use them to vote 10 times.”
Each participating band receives a $1,000 grant for its music program. There is no competition at the showcase, but an additional $20,000 will be awarded to the eight institutions whose bands are selected for it.
“I would like to see that money for an increase in scholarships,” Torregano said.
This event would also give some Valley students a chance at a new experience, Torregano said.
“It would be a great opportunity for our students to see some of the best bands in the nation,” he said. “A lot of the bands will be bands we don’t get to see.”
Torregano, now in his fifth year at Valley, said it will be an honor if the band is selected.
“This is the best band we’ve had since I’ve been here,” he said. “Thy are a really dedicated group, and they all have a great work ethic.”
In a news release from Honda, Marc Burt, senior manager in the Office of Inclusion and Diversity for American Honda, said the Battle of the Bands is a way the company can give back despite the economy.
“The nation’s current economic crisis has had a dire impact on black institutions, forcing many to struggle with enrollment projections and the maintenance of key programs,” Burt said. ”Despite these financial challenges America’s black colleges continue to contribute to the country’s cadre of black intellectuals, professionals and creative artists.”
