Gregory Drane, assistant director of athletic bands at Penn State, has been named director of athletic bands at the University -- including the Marching Blue Band -- for a two-year term, effective July 1, 2015. Drane, who holds a master’s degree in music education from Penn State, has been part of the Athletic Bands staff and an instructor in the School of Music since 2005. He will take over the position from longtime director O. Richard Bundy, who retires in June.
“Greg has been a charismatic and talented member of the Athletics Bands staff for the past ten years,” said Sue Haug, director of the School of Music. “He is known for his creative drill-writing, his memorable half-time shows and his contemporary arrangements, which have contributed to ‘one of the best atmospheres in college football,’ according to ESPN Magazine. He will be part of a team of outstanding and student-centered faculty and staff, serving the University, School of Music and athletic programs.”
In addition to directing the Blue Band, Drane, who holds bachelor’s degrees in music education and music performance (saxophone), will teach courses in marching and pep band, music education and general education, as well as directing a concert band.
During his tenure at Penn State, Drane has worked closely with all aspects of the Athletic Bands program. In addition to his role with the Blue Band, he has served as director of the Pride of the Lions basketball pep bands. He has also assisted with conducting non-major concert bands and taught music classes offered to non-majors for General Arts credit. Drane is a member of Phi Mu Alpha and the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association.
“It is a great honor to be appointed as the director of athletic bands at Penn State. I have had the pleasure of working with Dr. Bundy and the Blue Band for the past 10 years,” said Drane. “During that time, I dreamed of what it would be like to lead this prestigious organization. Today, that dream is now a reality. I am excited to work with some of the best students on this campus and the talented band staff members. Together we will uphold the great traditions of this University through creativity.”