The SAU Mulerider Band has updated not only its practice space but its appearance on the field with a greatly-expanded Magale Rehearsal Hall and new uniforms to be introduced in the fall of 2022.
A generous grant of $100,000 by The Roy and Christine Sturgis Charitable and Educational Trust of Arkadelphia, Arkansas, paired with gifts from other alumni and friends will provide funding needed to purchase the new uniforms.
The band will sport a new look for the first time in over 15 years. J.P. Wilson, director of bands, thanked the Sturgis Trust for the grant. “We would not be able to purchase these uniforms without the Sturgis Trust getting us to our goal,” Wilson said. “These uniforms are solid, sharp, and will provide a great visual to go along with our awesome sound.”
The new Mulerider uniforms maintain a traditional look but have clean lines and colors that will reflect the University’s colors of blue and gold. Audiences will be able to see different colors on the uniforms depending on whether the players have their instruments up or down. The band has sprung back into the spotlight with a greatly-expanded Magale Rehearsal Hall providing plenty of new rehearsal space.
“We are delighted with our renovated and expanded spaces,” said Wilson. “When a prospective student and their family walk through Oliver Band Hall, they can tell our program is well taken-care of.”
The expansion was completed in spring 2021 and boasts greater acoustics and more square footage. Existing space was reorganized to create valuable new storage areas for equipment and uniforms.
“We were very fortunate to receive this expansion,” said Wilson. “The size and acoustics of the new Magale Rehearsal Room ‘sealed the deal’ for several students to come to SAU.
