The University of California Marching Band has been a tradition at Berkeley for more than 100 years, exemplifying many of the best aspects of student life at one of the nation's most prestigious public universities. It boasts 180 members, a student-run management, and a unique high-step marching style, all of which combine to make it one of the most singular bands of its kind.

Formed as the R.O.T.C. Cadet Band in 1889, the Cal Band adopted its present name in 1923. It has performed across the country and around the world at such events as the Brussels World Fair in 1958, Expo '70 in Japan and a Bicentennial Tour of the United States in 1976. In 1980, the Band took to the stage with the San Francisco Ballet, and it was the official state band for the city's welcome to Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip of Great Britain in 1983.

While through the years California has collected numerous songs that are popular with its alumni and fans alike, two songs are regularly heard on football Saturdays each fall at Memorial Stadium. Those songs are the familiar fight song entitled "Big C," a brisk marching tune composed by N.S. McLaren and H.P. Williams of the class of 1914. The other is the Cal alma mater, "Hail to California," written and composed by Clinton R. "Brick" Morse, class of 1896.

For more on the band, visit www.calband.berkeley.edu