FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 13, 2018

For More Information:
Glenville State College
Public Relations Department
(304) 462-4115

GLENVILLE, WV - Glenville State College student Garrett Hacker will be serving as the field commander for the Pioneer 'Wall of Sound' Marching Band this semester. The music performance major hails from Burnsville, West Virginia. He is the son of Becky Jackson and Lee Hacker.

"I am very excited for this opportunity with the band. I am used to being at the back of the band with the drumline, so it's really cool to be at the front and to hear everything. It's an honor to serve the band as field commander," Hacker said.

He says that his inspiration for music comes from two places, his older brother and video games. "There's so much cool music in the video games I played, and I still listen for the music even now. My older brother also did band and I think that made me want to try it fifth grade," he said.

Hacker is trained as a percussionist and says his favorite to instrument to play is marimba but notes that his specialty is Timpani, due to its role in the band and orchestra. He also plays guitar, some bass and piano, and sings in the GSC Choir.

"I'm looking forward to stepping up into a role model figure for the band it's more than just waving my arms around. I think it's about being a leader and being able to help the band in any way and spending as much time as possible to help anyone out. I really enjoy being able to help a group or ensemble," Hacker said.

"I'm very excited for the season and I think it will be a great one for the band as well GSC Athletics," he said. "We hope that fans will enjoy this year's performances; the pregame show consists of the National Anthem, Come Home to West Virginia, and the GSC Pep Tune. Our halftime show will feature some musical theatre selections as well the drumline throwing it down at the fence."

After graduating from GSC in May 2019, he intends to go to grad school for a master's in music performance and music theory while also completing a graduate assistantship.

"This year's field commander tryouts were some of the most competitive in my 15 years at GSC. Mr. Hacker is a top-notch young musician who brings a wealth of talent, care, passion, and drive to the Pioneer Marching Band. I am excited to see all the ways he will contribute to what is going to be an excellent season," said Marching Band Director Dr. Lloyd Bone.

After expressing interest in serving as field commander, applicants take part in an audition day where they try out in front of a guest adjudicator. Candidates are expected to conduct a prepared piece and also to answer questions in regard to band leadership.