When thinking of Friday Night Lights, you may think of the football, the cheerleaders, and the fans. But even though you may hear them, many people forget about the band. During Friday-night home games, the band works hard to create energy and pep for the players and the fans through their musical performance.

The truth is the Cooper community doesn’t really get to see much of the band, besides from the usual winter and spring concerts. This moreover solidifies the importance of the band at Friday night lights, where they are known as pep band.

For example, many think of classical music, shiny instruments, and long concerts when they hear “band.” Pep band allows the student body and football fans to see a much different side of the band as they play Demi Lovato, Billie Eilish, and other popular artists in place of their classical tunes. Tony Yarbrough, director of the band stated why he enjoys it so much: “I love the atmosphere of the Friday night football games. I also love hearing and watching my students play together in a more relaxed setting than we have indoors on the stage. Watching my students enjoy themselves performing gives me great satisfaction and reward.” He stated how many coaches compliment the band’s performance and the energy it brings to the stadium. 

The presence of the pep band also further allows the coming together of the Cooper community. With athletes, fine art members, and fans all joining together to support their team, it embodies the diverse elements of Cooper. 

Finally, I asked a couple of my fellow band members what they enjoy most about the experience.

• “The food!” (Pep band includes a Chick-fil-a meal!).
• “I really love the social aspect of it. I can perform as a band student but then go hang out with my friends as a football fan.”
• “I’m a big football fan, so pep band means I can do two things I enjoy in one.”

Overall, pep band reveals a more casual side to one of Cooper’s most serious, well-regarded programs. Next time you find yourself at Friday night lights, take a minute to listen to the band and appreciate their energy and effort, in addition to the football team, cheerleaders, and everyone else who brings Dragon spirit to the stadium