College Band Traditions: Brown Buttons

The Brown University Band challenges any T.G.I. Friday’s employee to a contest of “flair” with their longstanding button tradition. The band “pays its respects” to the opposition by creating snarky buttons for each game, plus a special one for Homecoming.

The button collection dates back to the late ‘60s. Band members pass them out to any football fans who want them, and proud Brownies collect hundreds on their blazers.

Recent favorites:
•    Homecoming 2001: “Dr. Ruth Can Help You”
•    Yale 2004: “Keeping the White in the White House”
•    2004’s Harvard tribute: “Poupon U”

Check ‘em out on the Brown Band’s button page.

Photo copyright of Brown University Band. All rights reserved.

About author

Olivia Herstein

Olivia Herstein is a proud NUMBALUM, or alumna of the Northwestern University Marching Band. She still plays the clarinet in Minneapolis, but not in drill formation. In her day job, Olivia edits NWA WorldTraveler magazine.

Marching Roundtable Educates Directors

A new multimedia resource for current and future marching band directors is now available online. Marching Roundtable is a collection of podcasts, videos, academic resources ...