PROGRAMS
PRESERVE THE LEGACY OF BIG BOOM
Since 1953, the iconic Big Boom has been part of the rich history and tradition of band music at the University of Florida. The band director at the time, Colonel Harold Bachman, wanted to make UF the first band in the SEC to boast a giant bass drum which measured 6 feet in diameter and 22 inches wide. No matter when you were in the band–Big Boom is the one thing that connects us! In fact, the Gator Band Alumni Association is committed to maintain the drum’s future upkeep and ensure the legacy and importance of this UF icon! Banging the Big Boom before graduation is considered a “must do” for UF students.
GATOR BAND HISTORY PROJECT
As part of the 50th Anniversary Celebration of Gator Band Alumni Association our organization is dedicated to preserving the past and setting the foundation for future success. In partnership with the Gator Band, we are committed to sorting, archiving, restoring and recording the history and traditions of the Gator Band program at the University of Florida. This long-term program began in 2022 and we are currently working to catalog and restore old films and photographs; research and record past Drum Majors and GBAA leadership; with a goal of making it accessible for viewing.
WELCOME TO THE GATOR BAND FAMILY
BAND CAMP WEEK
A new Gator Band Tradition started in 2022! The GBAA added new projects to support the Gator Band during Band Camp week - we created a welcome home banner – provided popsicles to the students after practices and sponsored a band team building BBQ at Lake Wauberg! Plus, Big Boom was available for current band students to bang the drum and get their picture during band camp!
MARCH TO YOUR FUTURE
THE GBAA X GATOR BAND MENTORSHIP SPEAKER SERIES
March To Your Future is a collaborative mentorship speaker series designed to connect students of all UF Band Programs with Gator Band Alumni who share similar backgrounds, professional interests and career paths. Each speaker series will feature an alumni panel of knowledgeable topic experts who will provide guidance and support by offering career insight, sharing personal experiences and addressing questions.