Woodward Marching Band Director and Students Celebrate Receiving New Instruments

CINCINNATI — The Woodward Bulldogs are marching to even louder music after receiving nine new instruments thanks to a county grant.

When we last spoke with the Marching Bulldogs, they had just received two sousaphones. With $3,000 in Hamilton County grant money, they were also able to purchase three trombones and six trumpets.

Band director Tyree Gilbert posted a video on social media showing how excited his students were.

“Oh my God, it’s silver!” – one student shouted.

“I really like it,” said Mayell Manor, a trumpet player whose reaction was caught on camera. “Last season I dreamed of a silver trumpet, so I’m really excited to open the new case.”

Gilbert received the new tools after applying through the Woodward Trust Grant Fund. He said the appeal of the new instruments attracted more students to the group. The Marching Bulldogs continue to welcome new members as they still need two trombonists.

“New instruments always help lift the spirits of students, because sometimes with the instruments they have been sitting on for 25-30 years, nothing works and it sounds kind of funny, but when you have new instruments, it helps with the sound,” – he said.

The band performed with South Avondale Elementary on Thursday in hopes of encouraging more students to pursue music.

“It will keep you out of trouble,” said student Eli Benton. “It’s a place to be and a place to call home.”

De’Ja Gross

The Woodward Marching Bulldogs continue to raise funds to purchase new instruments and hope to perform in the New Orleans Mardi Gras parade next year.

As 2024 comes to a close, the group’s final performance will be Nov. 9 at the Wilberforce University Homecoming Parade.