The St. Paul’s Marching Wolves, 59 members strong, have been the source of musical entertainment for St. Paul’s School for decades. The locally famous tradition of the “Southern Gentleman” style of funk and jazz was created in 1974 by then Director of Bands Roy Mouton. Even though the band has very strong feelings towards keeping tradition, the past couple of years have been a period of rebuilding and improvement ever since the arrival of Director of Bands Andrew Moran four years ago.

“We have a new tuba this year and a new sound system for the band room,” said Moran when asked about new improvements in the band. “This is also our second year using the new uniforms.”

This year, the band recruited seven 8^th graders as well as a number of older students. Due to this year’s recruitment efforts, smaller sections, particularly the clarinets and flutes, have increased to their greatest sizes in years. Also, junior Shane Jones is this year’s new Junior Drum Major, studying under new Senior Drum Major Travis Dugas.

“We have a great group this year,” said Junior Drum Major Shane Jones. “They play and perform pretty well. This group is definitely better than last year’s.” Jones continued, “We’re playing a lot more 70s and disco music this year. We’re also playing some modern music, so watch out for those, too.”

The Marching Wolves, according to Moran, have been rated one of the best 5A marching bands in the state. This year, however, the goal is to make the already prestigious band even better. “This year, we will redefine what it means to be a show band, as well as improve on the things we do now,” said Senior Drum Major Travis Dugas. “We have improved in sound, as well as in numbers.”

The Marching Wolves are involved in a few new events this year, as well as familiar ones. This year, the Marching Wolves will perform at the City of Covington’s Bicentennial Celebration, originally planned for Aug. 30, but rescheduled to an undetermined date due to Hurricane Isaac.The Bicentennial Celebration performance will include a “Battle of the Bands” against Covington High.

Another upcoming event is the St. Paul’s Golden Blues and SPS Marching Wolves 4th Annual Dance Clinic and Halftime Performance. During this event, the Golden Blues dance team trains children of all ages to perform in a field show with the band. The clinic will take place on Sept. 8 to prepare the halftime show that will take place on Sept. 14.

The Marching Wolves are also known for their entertaining halftime shows and grandstand tunes. “This year, we’re doing a Pink Floyd show and a disco show. Also expect tunes from the top 40s chart when we play in the stands and march in parades,” said Moran. “Come out and support us during football games and Mardi Gras,” he added.