(Editor's note: Information in this story and photo gallery captions was compiled from "The Penn State Blue Band: A Century of Pride and Precision," by University alumnus Thomas E. Range II.)

One of the University’s most recognized and longstanding traditions, today's Penn State Blue Band has greatly evolved in the 125 years since the formal establishment of its predecessor, the Cadet Bugle Corps. 

Penn State’s military history dates back almost to its founding, with military instruction becoming part of the University's mission when it was named the commonwealth's land-grant institution in 1863. Military training was required of all able-bodied males, and a corps made up of fife, drum and bugle players, like those pictured below in the late 1800s, set cadence to battalion marching drills and parades. 

The drive to establish a college band came following a chance encounter in 1899 between cadet George Deike and his commandant — who became impressed with Deike’s musical talent after noticing a bugle in his Old Main dormitory room during a routine inspection. Deike was authorized to organize a formal group if he could find enough musicians, which led to the formation of the six-member Cadet Bugle Corps.  

Interest in forming a full band grew from there, and while organizers were able to recruit enough talented musicians, they lacked the funds to purchase instruments. Then, thanks to a generous donation from steel magnate and Penn State Trustee Andrew Carnegie and official authorization from Penn State President George Atherton, on Oct. 23, 1901, the Cadet Band of the Pennsylvania State College, comprised of 24 members, was formed. 

Over the next 123 years, the Cadet Band evolved into the present-day Penn State Blue Band, totaling more than 300 members, and has become a significant part of campus life and traditions. See more pictures of and read more about the Blue Band's 125-year history in the album below.