Marching Salukis
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Traditions
The SIUC Marching Salukis are known as one of the most unusual, innovative, and entertaining college marching bands in the nation. Since 1961, when the Salukis first donned their homburgs and tuxedos, we have continued to explore new approaches to half-time entertainment, ranging from the “Saluki Rhythm on Wheels” and the nation¹s first marching violin and piano to our nationally acclaimed rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. Each performance calls for a balance of musical and visual elements. Both music and movement must be executed with style, precision, confidence, and energy. We are also known for our Saluki Spirit and the direct personal involvement of each of our members in everything we do. The Marching Salukis strive to be a group of marching musicians who have fun while working hard! Although portions of our performances call for the use of controlled chaos, the rich traditions of the Marching Salukis dictate that all actions of our members be governed by individual decisions which will reflect positively upon the band, the School of Music, and Southern Illinois University Carbondale as a whole.
The band is also known for its "Saluki Salute to America", a patriotic medley composed by Marching Salukis Alumni Glen Daum. The piece opens with "America The Beautiful" and then moves to "The Star-Spangled Banner", performed by two solo, antiphonal trumpets. "Salute to America" has been performed by the band at many functions, including the 1982 World Series.
