By World Online     Sep 15, 2005

We asked readers to weigh in on the new Marching Jayhawk uniforms. Here’s what they had to say.

Terry: Look good.

Jack: Style-great. Color-you have to be kidding! Did someone forget to tell the new band director KU colors are Crimson and Blue? Black as an accent color went out with the 90’s, and belong on our friends from Missery U. Worst decision since the Marching Jayhawks were turned into the Marching Woodwinds.

Colleen: I was a member of the marching band when the uniforms were new – piccolo section.

Unfortunately, the proposed design is nothing short of terrible. Black??? Our colors are crimson and blue. Not black. Missouri is black – not KU. The black uniforms should accomplish one thing, though – making the wearer hotter.

I’m extremely disappointed. I haven’t donated to the fund, yet, but was going to before it is finished. If this is what my money would go for, however, I think I’ll abstain.

In a word? Yuck.

Rita: I don’t like the black pants. I think they should be blue. KU colors are crimson and blue not black.

Mark: I think the new uniforms are great! Plenty of history from old uniforms are there yet there is certainly the touch of class from Drum Corps uniforms from today! I look forward to seeing them this fall!

Glennett: The University’s colors are CRIMSON and BLUE not black, navy, miners, or New York Giants blue. Just because football doesn’t know what the team colors are should the band follow. At least there’s a Jayhawk on the uniforms.

Ken: I think the black color is disgusting! The traditional uniforms represent the University in a much more positive manner. I know I will not make an effort to see them come marching down the hill anymore before football games!

Nancy: The jacket is nice. The rest is terrible. We do not have black in our colors. There is more black than blue in the uniform. We are not Colorado or Misery, we are KANSAS! I wonder how many would have contributed to the fundraising campaign if they knew this is what the uniforms were going to look like.

Emily: I have been a member of the Marching Jayhawks for three years and plan on participating next year as well. I am very excited about the new uniforms. I can understand why people would not like the black color. When I had first heard that black was going to be a dominate color I wasn’t happy with the loss of the traditional blue, but after seeing the new uniforms in person I was very impressed.

As for everyone saying that we will look like MU or CU, it shouldn’t matter what we look like. People should watch us for the way we perform and the sound that we work hard to produce, not for the color of our uniforms.

I’m also disappointed in the people who are now saying that they wouldn’t have contributed money had they seen the uniform design prior to their donation. That is very hurtful to read. Every bit of money went towards a wonderful cause and I hope that people will come to understand this and won’t regret the contribution they made to the Marching Jayhawks.

John: Wow. Those uniforms are the ugliest things I have ever seen. When did black become a school color? I’m very dissapointed, I never thought $150,000 could look so bad. If the band needs any extra capes, I can probably dig out the Superman PJ’s I wore when I was five years old. I really hope this design is thrown out the window, they look cheap and don’t match anything that current KU athletic teams wear.

Julie: I love them! The new uniforms are very sharp. They have a classic feel but modern at the same time. The colors really pop off the black. They will look incredible on the field this fall. Band members can really be proud of them.

Larry: I was disappointed beyond words to see the new uniforms for the Jayhawks marching band. $150,000 was spent on this project? This is so embarassing. I cannot imagine a more atrocious, revolting, disgusting look for the new uniforms. Generally speaking, I think the color black can be a classic look when incorporated into the uniform for many marching bands, depending on the accompanying colors. But with our colors, this just DOES NOT WORK, in my opinion. The black pants look awful. The black hat looks worse than awful. Black gloves? I will become physically ill if I’m exposed to the sight of the KU band wearing this uniform on the field. We all know that the numbers are WAY down for the band. I cannot imagine them doing anything but dropping further if this is the uniform the band is forced to “parade” around. Also, the nostril that appears on the Jayhawk’s beak is about twice the size of what I’m used to. It suddenly is very prominent. Has the Jayhawk undergone some sort of surgery we were not made aware of? This is just an overall complete embarassment. I only hope the final decision has not been made on this.

Chloe: If you guys have a problem with the way the uniforms look, hold your tongue. YOU are not wearing them, WE are. Who cares if black isn’t one of our school colors? Mr. Hudson has worked his tail off to help get our program back to what it was. If you don’t want to support one of THE BEST traditions at the University of Kansas, then don’t. It’s your loss. And it’s a big one at that.

I AM, and ALWAYS will be proud to be a Marching Jayhawk, until the day I die. At least we have incorporated some ideas from the past uniforms and didn’t go for something 100% different.

Some of the comments you people have made are atrocious, revolting and disgusting, NOT the new uniforms.

Everyone I have shown the uniform to has appreciated the new look and what Mr. Hudson is willing to do for us. AND, for those of you who are speaking too soon about being hot on the 90 degree game days, there are two jackets: one for hot game days and one for cold ones. Besides, white pants show mud easier and we all know how the first game of this past season was: WET and MUDDY. Black hides mud MUCH better than white.

Tristan: For all those complaining about the black in the uniforms, here are some thoughts:

First of all, when designing a uniform, the pants are kept simple for the most part, and the focus is on the jacket.

Secondly, the black is there in part to give a formal look, and is inspired partly by the uniforms of some of the most successful drum and bugle corps of today-for more information and pictures, head to www.dci.org.

Black pants make the marching look more uniform and are much easier to keep clean than other colors.

Black and white in uniform design are considered non-colors. If you’re going to complain about the black, why not complain about the white as well? White certainly is not one of KU’s colors.

Shall we not also complain about the football team wearing white pants? What about event staff wearing yellow? KU police wearing navy?

I’d also invite all those questioning the historical accuracy of the black in the uniforms to take a look at the 1950’s uniform, which has been in the “feather the flock” ads and is also hanging in the band office in Murphy Hall. Except for a medium-sized placard on the chest, the uniform is entirely black.

The uniforms are designed to last and look sharp, classy, and formal. Crimson and/or blue pants don’t fit that bill as well.

The black pants, combined with the short cut of the jacket, also have an added effect of making the marching members appear much taller and more slender on the field than they actually are. Colored pants, in addition to the logistical nightmare of keeping them clean, would have largely the opposite effect.

I for one am very pleased with the new uniform design and look forward to wearing it this fall.

Tim: I think people are overreacting to the black. First of all, people are not going to mistake us for MU or CU. There is no gold in the uniform. When you see the uniforms in person, the coats are very striking. The black is just a base color and does not catch your eye at all. The colors you notice are the blue and crimson. I think Tristan, above, made some very wise comments. I am a very recent alumn of the KU Marching Band(Fall 2003 was my 5th and last year), and did like the old uniforms. However, it is time for a change.

For those who say the uniforms are not unique also need to take another look. There are many features that high schools simply don’t have as an option. The high school students who have seen this uniform have been impressed.

The Student Senate overwhelmingly approved of the new uniforms, as have almost everyone who has seen them, including the current marching band students. Most students can’t wait to wear the uniforms next year. Compare these to other uniforms in the Big XII, and I think we’ll blow them out of the water.

Also, the Jayhawk on the prototype is the wrong Jayhawk. The University will send the correct images to the uniform company.

Lastly, the Marching Band is rebuilding and it hurts to read all of the horrible comments by some people. They should be ashamed. There has been a major transition between the old and new directors. Professor Foster (who did, in fact, like the new uniform) established great traditions, but those couldn’t last forever. The band must move on, and they need support while doing so. Tradition is very important, but sometimes one needs to move on and look forward to the future. I am sure KU will see some of its best bands under Professor Hudson’s direction.

Larry: I have had two sons in the Marching Band for a total of seven years and we have contributed to Feather the Flock. I am appalled at the BLACK design. The black hats and plumes, pants are NOT KU. Did our new band director look at a black & white photo of the early bands to find historical black? I would not have contributed if I’d seen this design. Crimson and BLUE!!

Adam: Please tell me that there is still time to make drastic changes because these uniforms are hideous. I would rather see the old dirty ones than these. Please do something true to KU colors and LOSE THE BLACK!

Les: I could not believe it when I saw the pictures of the new uniforms. BLACK! KU’s colors are crimson and blue, not black. This is not Missouri or Colorado. This is KU. I have been a huge fan or band for many years. I was just sick when I saw the new uniforms. Please do not use black.

Derek: As a former band member I feel compelled to comment. Going with the cape instead of the wings we used is OK with me. But that overlay is the only part of the whole ensemble that belongs on a KU band member.

I hate all the black. Are the black shoes designed to conceal the fact that the band can no longer march in step?

I suppose I can almost forgive the black hat and black pants, but a black plume? Is the band planning to make a few extra bucks by playing wakes and funerals?

Overall Grade: D+

Rod: I think this diseaster can be salvaged. Simply change the name from the “Marching Jayhawks” to either the “Funeral Flock” or the “Marching Mortuary.”

Chris: O My GOD!!! Black????? When did KU add black to the official colors? I know the reason for the black is to make it look drum corps like, but the Marching Jayhawks are not a drum corps. They are a college marching band. I can’t believe that at all, especially with the biggest rival of Kansas having black as their main color. If you have to go with one of the “non-colors” as one poster said, then go with white, NOT BLACK!! I think the black hat bothers me most of all. I don’t get that part of it at all. It’s painful enough to watch the marching band that I put so much time into dwindle to around 125-150 members just a few years after I leave, but to have them make such a big PR and tradition mistake like this one makes me sick. I really hope that Jim Hudson, Director of the Marching Jayhawks, and John Lynch, Director of Bands, are reading these comments. If they want future support for the Marching Jayhawks, they better address these concerns very quickly.

Scott: I’ll echo nearly all the other posted comments and say that I’m disappointed with the amount of black used. Black hat, black plume, black gloves, black pants, black shoes… makes you want to mourn for all the lost time spent designing these. Is there a covert MU or CU operation inside the the school of fine arts?

I’ll add the cape is too short in my opinion.

On the other hand, the jacket appears to be quite acceptable.

Elizabeth: At first glance, I thought it looked like a rocketman uniform. Someone else said it looked like a superman uniform. I think the cape is too short and the cap sleeves say “take off”. Everything else is sharp.

Jerry: I am somewhat disappointed in the lack or originality of the new uniforms. I would like to see a “unique” uniform, which no other school has and would represent KU only. There is no difference between the uniform photo and a thousand high school bands across the nation.

Austin: I think they look horrible. Who decided to add black to our color scheme? Why not go with the darker blue that the football team wears?

J.R.: As a former member of the Marching Band I would have to say that I do not like the black. If we are going to go with black then why not change the colors of the uniform to fit with the times. KU football wears a fairly dark crimson and blue (which is to my understanding the traditional colors from a while back). Change the black to KU football blue as well as the rest of the crimson and blue in the uniform. I hope changes are made since this is only a protype. I understand Tristan’s points above but this just does not work with our colors. O-State wears white pants and gloves which is really sharp on the field. If the strategy is to go with more nuetral colors then change the black to white and revert the white around the Jayhawk to the way it was with crimson. I think that would look better. I think changes do need to be made but however I can see how this could possibly look sharp with a full marching band on the field.

Larry: BLACK!!!! Was it the school of fine arts at KU that picked BLACK to be used as the dominant color? If so, they must not have both oars in the water and they aren’t playing with a full deck. Get rid of the BLACK!!

Jim: These new band uniforms are absolutely horrible. The excuse that it gives a more formal look is inaccurate. This uniform in no way reflects KU, it’s colors or traditions. Harkening back to the 50s is an excuse because most bands didn’t have better uniforms then. This uniform is an absolute travesty and I wish I hadn’t donated for them.

Diane: I don’t like the black uniforms. Where is the CRIMSON and BLUE????? Also don’t like the superman cape and the black hat! If you have to change the uniforms, then get something that is more unique and something that will make KU stand out as a marching band. Please don’t make the marching band look like it came from Missouri or Colorado. We are proud to be Kansans, don’t make us miserable Missourians!

Scott: As a member of the KU Band from 1976-1980, I can truthfully say that these uniforms just contribute to the destruction of the tradition that was the KU Marching Band.

All the black is awful, but the black gloves are truly atrocious.

I hope they cashed all the checks, because if not there would be a lot of people putting stop payments on their contributions.

Whoever designed this disaster definitely has taste only in his/her mouth.

Karle: Horrible! Since when are black and white KU’s primary colors? It looks like they got dressed in the dark because it doesn’t match or flow at all. Dark football blue instead of black and existing blue, more crimson and less white would be a huge improvment.

Brent: I know that drastic changes like this often provoke extreme backlash, but I must admit that I am not a big fan of the black pants. How about using the same dark blue color that the football team uses? Also, I’ve seen it pictured both ways, but isn’t the Jayhawk symbol supposed to face the right (it was given boots so that it could kick Missouri back across the border)? And is that a nostril I see on the Jayhawk’s beak? What is up with that? On a more positive note, I am glad to see that we’ve decided to invest in the new uniforms.

Shawn: The black is terrible. Are we trying to hide the band? Combined with the dark blue coat, the only thing you will be able to see is the white front of the overlay. Our enemy to the east wears black and our enemy to the west wears black. That makes them not only ugly, but inappropriate. Black doesn’t go with Crimson and Blue. Black gloves, black hat, and a BLACK PLUME??? Give me a break.

Jerry: This is real IMPORTANT that we get this right. Especially if it’s going to be another 22 years before we have a chance to change the uniforms. Please, do away with the black. It’s not traditional, it has absolutely nothing to do with our colors, and it clearly is not practical (too hot). Crimson, blue and white – in any combination – is where we need to be. PLEASE!

Bruce: I never realized our school colors included black. This would be laughable if good folks hadn’t spent $150k +. Hudson needs to get a real designer to do the work and come up with something better than this. I can’t wait to see the band members pass out on those 90 degree plus gamedays. On a scale of 1 – 10, these are a 1.

Gary: I dunno – I look at this guy and all I can think is how expensive the valet parking must be at this hotel.

Jon: I am almost outraged and disappointed in the choice of uniforms of the University of Kansas Marching band. Being a member for three years and contributing constituent of the feather the flock program, I couldnââ /¢t have been more disgusted with the selection. We have the honor and privilege to be the only school in the Big XII with blue as the main color. This is shown on 1/3 of the uniform and red is barely a component of it. Black is used almost exclusively by all of the other bands in the Big XII, why us? The Marching Jayhawks ARE NOT a DCI band nor should they act like one or dress like one. I support change, especially with the dwindling numbers of the band, but this choice of color goes beyond the University of Kansas Marching Jayhawks, it only looks worse. It breaks traditions of what our school colors really are. I hope the administrators are able to see the backlash of this and use the opinions of the same people who donated to get them new uniforms to revise their decision.

Jim: I don’t like the new uniforms. KU’s colors are crimson and blue. That is what our band should be wearing. I imagine I could tolerate the styling if the colors were different. For $500/uniform, they can do much better. The article said they were designed by a committee. It looks like it because it takes a committee to mess something up that badly.

Randall: It’s a good thing they didn’t publish the pictures before they started the fundraising. Since when is black a dominant KU school color? Black is Missouri’s domain. Or are we becoming like Colorado, choosing new school colors every few years?

Please, Chancellor Hemenway, Lew Perkins, somebody, establish an official school color committee, make a decision on what our colors are going to be and make all the sports teams and organizations that represent KU stick to it.

I, for one, would like the colors of the Jayhawk to be consistent and not ‘trendy’.

I’m very disappointed.

David: Since when has black become one of KU’s colors? Did the Wichita company hire NIKE for the design. I mean, they love black because it’s hip and way cool, dude. Sigh.

Black pants, black hat, black plume? Perhaps they should have just redone the Jayhawk in black too. While we’re at it, how about covering the giant Jayhawks at midfield in Memorial and midcourt in Allen in black too.

This band uniform ought to be scrapped and redesigned with Kansas Crimson & Blue as the dominant colors and no black.

Randy: Nice, but KU Colors are Blue and White, not BLACK!!!!

Chuck: Ugly. With all the respect due to tradition, black is not one of our school colors. Also, since this is the marching band uniform for football games, why not adopt the color scheme of the football team? Navy blue with crimson and white trim would look sharp.

Dan: Black pants…terrible. Go with the Navy blue like the football team or just keep the old gear. We have navy FB uniforms, a royal trimmed stadium, and now black pants on the band uniforms. We need some unity! The navy blue looks great on the football uniforms.

Chris: Absolutely hideous. Uglier than Norm Stewart under fluorescent lighting first thing in the morning. Black may be part of some long-dead tradition, but clearly sometimes dead is better. It’s unabashedly gag inducing.

Lynn: I am a Washburn grad (KU fan) and made my first donation to KU with Feather the Flock. I am very disappointed by the black. Black is not one of KU’s colors. It is ugly and will be hot. Be proud of the crimson and blue!

Troy: “Watch me pull a rabbit out of my hat!” How embarassing. Just simply awful.

Teresa: I previewed the uniform in the on-line addition of the J-W this a.m. I was not sure if I had not had enough coffee or just have no fashion-sense. The uniform appears to be a cross between a british bobby and a superhero comic character outfit. The top is nice looking; however, the rest of the outfit ,in black, doesn’t seem to match. I have no recommendation as I am not a fashion designer and have no sense of color, but I think the uniform looks ridiculous. Furthermore, black easily shows stains, lint, and is light absorbing-which would make the wearer very warm in the bright sunlight.

Nick: I like the tops of the uniforms, I think they look great. However, and maybe this is just me, but I was always told to never wear black slacks with the sort of bold blue that the new uniforms feature. It just looks tacky. Perhaps white pants might look nicer.

Jack: The prototype that the KU Band administrators have shown is great except for the black. Black is not one of KU’s colors! In fact, they should lose the black and the royal blue and use the football team’s navy blue instead. Now THAT would look sharp! It’s ok to want to have some things from the past, but do it with some pragmatism and an eye to the future. NO BLACK! YUCK!

Mike:These uniforms are pathetic.

Dan: First off, I love the style Hudson has chosen to use for the new uniforms. The newer “corps style” uniforms are very catchy, and much more professional looking than the older version. The black pants are very nice, I think black is a great color to go with the uniforms. Yeah, I understand that KU’s colors are crimson and blue, but they’re shown in the coats. I personally favor “corps style” uniforms, and believe that these uniforms will impact the community on a good note! I’m very pleased with the results.

Jack: Make the black go away and stay gone. While the black is better for dirt and such-its not in keeping with traditional school colors. Go to a dark or navy blue pant if you want the best of both worlds but you must incorporate blue and crimson. Do away with the pickel barrel hats also. Looks like the charging of the alamo.and capes are only good for superman. No capes. If ya want to look smart you can’t be dragging something behind you. Other tha that Mrs. Lincoln how was the play?

Paul: Well just another example that the new K.U. administration came and higher education left. BLACK ?

Mike: Too much black.

Elizabeth: How sad. It is amazing how much money the “feather the flock” campaign was able to gain, yet it is a shame that all this newfound money is going to one giant fashion faux pas. Blue and black? Seriously, what are they, the marching bruises?

But joking aside, I don’t beleive that snazzy new uniforms will give the marching band newfound popularity. However, looking good is an important aspect of any performance group. The new uniforms do look economical, or maybe I should say cheap. They do seem to have historical significance, or maybe I should say outdated. The black pants will be slimming, nice and toasty (during those 80 degree September games) and hide the dirt on the lazy Marching Jayhawk that doesn’t get his uniform dry-cleaned every Sunday. The black pants will also do much to hide messing marching techniques, out-of-step tuba players and the forgetful student who lost his pants, and substituted black dockers last minute. Add the black hats, plumes and gloves and the clarinet section might as well become invisible.

The old program was classy. Members were treated like adults, and students had pride in what they accomplished every Saturday. They had classy uniforms to match. White is clean, sophisticated and essentially KU. The home team never wears black, and neither does a sharp, accurate, successful KU marching program.

Dee: I am disappointed at with all of the negative comments surrounding the new uniforms. I know change is difficult, it always has been for me – but sometimes we all have to move forward. There are elements about his uniform I like and ones I do not. The bottom line is – it is not about me, its about what the kids want and will be proud of! My contribution was made for the good of the program – I support the efforts of the staff and students (both on and off the field) and will continue to contribute based on that premise alone.

The new uniforms are not about the alums. Of course we all think the band was at its best when we were there, uniforms, music, marching… The new uniforms are about today’s students, about recruiting, about making a statement that the KU Marching Jayhawks have moved into the 21st century.

For those of you concerned about all of the black, I invite you to go to a drum corp show or a high school marching contest, what you will see is a great deal of black in these uniforms; it looks sharp on the field. Much like the design of the uniforms in the 70’s and 80’s – it is about keeping in touch with the times, looking toward the future, and setting the KU Band apart from the others. (… and, to the guy that thinks black shoes hide poor fundementals, take it from me – they don’t. If they wanted to hide bad feet they would have gone for green- believe me, it has crossed the mind of many band directors! )

The best way to imporve marching fundementals is to improve pride in the band. I believe Prof. Hudson, Dr. Lynch, all of the KU Band Staff and students had just that in mind when they designed these uniforms. It has been my experience that students are not shy about offering their opinions – should we not let them have the final word on the new unifomrs? After all, it is their band.

J.B.: The Marching Jayhawks should not be looked upon as a “Corps Band.” They are a University band and should look like it is apart of the University. Being part of the Marching Jayhawk alumni I experienced the falling off of people as I have played there. Now that our football team has turned around (hopefully), it is the perfect time to have new uniforms to boost the moral of the band and pick up some new members, but make them BLUE for goodness sake. A few years ago it might have been a good idea showing up in Black at Memorial Stadium. Not Now!!!!!

Arthur: DUMP THE BLACK. KU COLORS ARE CRIMSON & BLUE!! If you want a dark color for the helmet and the trousers, use a dark blue. I would like something very similar to the present uniforms. The present uniforms are very attractive. I think the band looks great in the present uniforms. If you can’t come up with something better than the proposed models, just use the money to replicate the present uniforms. I’m not sure but I don’t think Michigan or Ohio State have changed their uniforms so why is it necessary to change ours?

I was a band and orchestra member from 1949 to 1953. We rode the trains to MU, KSU and Nebraska. In those days we would beat Nebraska in Lincoln and they would win in Lawrence. After our wins in Lincoln we would always march the long way around back to the train station even though you can throw a rock from the stadium to the train station and not hurt your arm. One year in Columbia the chill factor was below zero. Mr. Wiley gave abig down beat for the national anthem prior to kickoff and all he got was woodwinds and percussion as the brass instruments were all frozen.

PLEASE RECONSIDER THE PROPOSED SELECTION.

Jayhawk: Yes, it is true, even the educated can make absolutely wrong choices. Where did this group find black and those hats. blacK is M.U. not K.U. Pepsi, tution increases, low instructor pay, Self, attacks on instructors by Kansas legislators, ticket distribution, ticket price increases and the current K.U. leadership……BLACK.

Gail: I am so disappointed. I thought the new uniforms were to encourage new members. Who would want to wear that horrendous thing? I can not believe how terrible they look.

Lynn: As a current band member I am in full support of Mr. Hudson and the design of the new uniforms. When I first looked at the uniform online I was actually unsure of all the black. However, after seeing the other styles the uniform can transfer into, I am impressed, anxious and proud to be given the opportunity to wear the classic and professional looking uniform next year! They are a great improvement from the old uniforms. And yes black is not the normal color everyone is used to seeing the jayhawks in; however, it is a change that needs to be made.

For the person who said that we are lazy and should have our uniforms dry cleaned after every game, I will gladly send you the bill. I don’t know how money was when you went to college, but I for one can not afford to do that after every game. I agree we have to take care of them; however, having them dry cleaned after every game is not always needed. Some may not know that the band members have to pay for any dry cleaning, not the university. The University only pays for dry cleaning once in the season.

For those who support the Marching Jayhawks through this time of change, thank you! You have helped us take an important step into the future and I am excited to get new uniforms and will proudly continue the traditions of the Marching Jayhawks.

Sam: Black for KU?- What’s next? changing the words in the Alma Mater to the black and the blue???

If the designer just wanted the KU marching Jayhawks to look sharp, what’s wrong with using KU’s colors??? The new prototype uniform might look trendy, but to me, it looks ugly, and the predominant black over KU’s Crimsom and Blue colors makes it insulting, not to mention hot for the wearer! When the model is seen sideways, you cannot even see his hands that are lost in the black, and the very small stripes in the black “British Bobby” hat are barely visible.

What are they thinking? – Have they gone mad?

If they can’t come up with something that truly represents KU, with the crimsom and the blue, why imitate MU and CU’s blackness???

Please, reconsider this huge mistake before it’s too late!!!

Our precious KU traditions go way back to the 1800’s. The Crimsom and the Blue, not the black and the blue.

Anne: I love the new uniforms! I love the addition of black! It does not make me think of other schools – I’m sorry about others’ negative response to this addition. The colour black, to me, means ‘formal’ & ‘classy’ and black always goes with any other colour. The band will look terrific in these new uniforms! Yay!

Pat: Ick to the black and helmet design. The uniforms overall look too busy, too much going on and no focus on the main events — crimson and blue and Jayhawk/KU. It looks like we bought “off the rack” pants and helmet and had the jacket designed. I can’t imagine having white down the front of a uniform and keeping it clean. It’s an invitation to a spill or dirt just from brushing against objects like an instrument or case. I leave it to band members to comment on whether these are practical and comfortable. A short jacket does expose our middles, so let’s make sure the design makes all players look (and feel) their best.

Jim and Barbara: PLEASE, no black trousers!! KU blue is our color, not Missouri or Colorado black.

Beside that, we are sick and tired of black as the dominate color of clothing, CD and VCR players and their remotes, etc. It’s passe!

Tony: Get rid of the black -they look gawd awful.

Chloe: I have had first hand experience with getting new uniforms that have black pants when black is not a school color. My freshman year at Junction City High School, we received new uniforms: royal blue jacket for the band members and white for the drum majors. We also had black pants, shoes, shakos and gloves. Our school colors were royal blue and white. Black is starting to be the base color for a number of marching band uniforms, especially for the pants. A school’s colors don’t have to include black for them to be able to use it. Black is a slimming color, it makes the band look taller and it is very classy.

If the committee had decided to design the uniforms almost exactly like the current ones, there would be people complaining about the lack of creativity. If they designed a uniform that had absolutely nothing to do with the Marching Jayhawks, there too would be people complaining about them. Change is NOT a bad thing. Especially when the Director of Athletic Bands, the Director of Bands and the staff and members of the Marching Jayhawks are trying as hard as they possibly can to re-build the program to what it once was and to keep the wonderful tradition alive.

My very first Pre-Game show in the Fall of 2002 didn’t happen until mid-season due to an injury. But just watching my fellow band members come filing out of the tunnels gave me chills. It is one of the best experiences I have ever had, and I had never been so happy as I was when I got to do my first Pre-Game show of my Marching Jayhawk career. To come filing out of the tunnels next year in September, showing off new uniforms, is an honor I am looking forward to. And I will wear the new uniform with pride for the next three years of my career with great pride, no matter what they look like or what anyone thinks about them. I have gotten a lot of things from being a member of the Marching Jayhawks for the past two years, mostly friendships and character building skills. Two very important things in my mind that everyone should be able to experience.

Again, if you don’t like them, hold your tongue. This is OUR band, WE are re-building it. And we WILL be one of the best traditions KU has ever seen for years to come.

Brandon: I’m very hurt and displeased with the overwhelming slams on the new, Marching Jayhawk, uniform. Yes, Mr. Hudson knows we are not Missouri or Colorado. Just because we have black pants, doesn’t mean the marching band is turning it’s back on the crimson and the blue. If one looks at the uniform coat, the coat is nothing but a beautiful, KU, blue and crimson trim. Pants are a secondary piece of the uniform and focus should fall on the coat.

Now, for those out there that have never done marching band or have forgotten what its like, listen up. This talk of getting white pants instead of black pants…HORRIBLE idea! In a college marching band setting, and any marching band setting for that matter, uniforms get used and abused. Bands run their uniforms through some of the nastiest weather imaginable. If one thinks about it, would it be sensable to wear white pants in the crazy-weather-capital-of-the-world, Kansas? How does one think band members would feel wearing white pants on a rainy, Kansas day? How does one think band members will look, when they are running in for pregame on wet, muddy stairs, spalshing mud on their white pants? Band members sit on dirty bleachers at football games, march in adverse weather conditions, and wear these uniforms hours at a time. My point is white pants will show their wear-and-tear, and WILL wear out faster than black. So, before you decide to grill Mr. Hudson about t!

he black pants, think about how unpractical white pants would be for our organization.

As a member of the Marching Jayhawks, I absolutely love the look of the new uniform. The black only gives us a more classy, and uniform look, and the coat gives us many options to work with. I can’t wait to wear the uniform this fall.

Jim: Let’s face it, this is a done deal. I’m sure Mark Mangino didn’t ask anyone’s permission before switching to the navy blue two years ago. Why should we expect it from the Band?

It’s too bad the Marching Jayhawks are going to look like they collectively grabbed the jacket from one suit and the pants from another for the next few years.

You know, I understand the concept they were trying for here, I really do. At its heart, it’s not a bad idea. But every time I’ve seen a band/corps wear black pants with a different color jacket, the pants and the jacket are actually CONTRASTING colors. Given the lack of visual interest displayed by these uniforms, we’re left thinking about how much of our rival’s colors are on display, instead of how well these uniforms represent our University.

And let’s not prattle on about how “we wore black in the 50s”. EVERY marching band on the planet wore black in those pre-polyester-blend days. (Ohio State is just the only one that’s stuck with it since then.)

But ultimately, the deal is done, and when September rolls around, this is what the Marching Jahawks will be wearing. AllI can say is that I’m left feeling like I was sold a bill of goods by the “Feather the Flock” campaign. Sad.

Lucy: Black shoes for marching bands signify one thing: the band is afraid that white shoes will reveal that it cannot march in step. The same goes for black hats and plumes. Furthermore, the only argument I have heard in support of the black parts of the uniform is that they make the band look more professional. Why does the band need to look professional? It’s a marching band! It needs to entertain, and to entertain it needs to look like it is going to a football game, not a funeral.

Annie: As a KU student, I am very happy that the band has something new and exciting. Coming from a state where you have college bands that are very proud and polished, it will be nice to get a little of that swagger back in KU’s band program. The uniforms look great in general. I don’t mind the black and am thankful we are sticking with KU blue in the design. Although I was prepared to dislike the black, I thihk it looks sharp in regard to the pants and shoes. I like the design of the hats as well but absolutely dislike the use of black there as well. Can you imagine the pictures of the band that we will see in pictures? A face with a big black feather sticking out of the top. Work black into the hat if you must, but please do not make our school look like we have an identity crisis! That said, I do wish the band the best of luck in the coming year and commend the director on making a change that has to be something better than a uniform with duct tape holding it together!

Larry: When we’re trying to attract more KU students to join the band, the new uniforms should be an asset. Just look at the overwhelmingly supportive comments of current band members who “get” what the designers are doing with the new design. Once we see them march down the hill next September, the criticism will fade.

Lieke: This is unbelievable! Change can and usually is a good thing. To all of you who are regretting donating money to this wonderful cause, would you rather us get white pants only to have another feather the flock campaign in five years due to the awful state of the pants? It’s ridiculous to see how many people asked if black was a new KU color; obviously it isn’t, but ask yourself this: Was white ever a KU color? No, it wasn’t. It makes more sense, looks sharper and classier, and will lengthen the life-span of these uniforms by several years. The money raised for this cause was put to excellent use. If you feel the need to create and design the uniforms, how about personally donating $150,000 yourself and doing it… unless.. you don’t have that kind of money. What kind of income did you have when you went to college, enough money to clean your uniform weekly? If we have white pants are you willing to fork over the money each week to your adopted marching band!

I was delighted with the new designs for the uniforms- the marching jayhawks will look sharp on the field for a long time. Black can go with anything, who says that Crimson and Blue don’t fit with black? That’s absurd, even more absurd and disturbing is the number of people pulling their support from behind the Jayhawks merely because of the color black being dominant on their uniforms. I thought Lawrence was a wonderful town where everyone supported each other and where we kept our minds open to new ideas. Apperently not and I am ashamed to think I might know some of you. I’d like to commend Mr. Hudson and the KU Marching Jayhawks on a fabulous representation of KU. I look forward to an excellent football season next year only made better by the accompaniement of the band. ROCK CHALK! JAYHAWK! GO KU!!!

Amanda: I seariously do NOT like the black in the uniform. I wouldn’t mind if it were dark blue, or navy. But I don’t like the black. Our school colors are not Crimson Blue and Black. They are Crimson and Blue. That means Red and Blue. That’s all I have to say about that.

Tristan: To all of those crying that KU’s colors are crimson and blue:

Yes, you are correct. But the Jayhawk logo has yellow in it. Shall we change his shoes and beak to be one of those two colors?

To those saying that blue does not go well with black:

take a look at the Concord Blue Devils from Concord, Calif., and tell me that uniform doesn’t look good.

To the person who made the Nike uniform comment: Nike did in fact design a band uniform for the University of Oregon marching band.

I’m glad to have a normal-sized black shako (not helmet). The one from before, quite frankly, made me feel a bit ridiculous, being oversized and brightly colored, sporting tassels and a short, stubby plume, but to each their own. These shakos and plumes will visually add 6 to 8 inches to band members’ heights, which will greatly improve the field presence of the band.

I’m also noticing that some of the most vocal negative comments on here seem to be coming from the same three or four names.

Martha: Black pants? No, no. What’s wrong with blue? Our colors are crimson and blue – please, that color combination (with black pants) looks very ordinary, not Jayhawk-y at all.Respectfully, but PLEASE change it.

Steve: If the choice is between the tattered traditional Jayhawk Band uniforms and the up-to-date black version, I say leave the new ones in the box.

Lance: Love how you guys run your site. Gotta give ya props, ya never take the easy way out. Was shocked to see a VR of the band uniforms. The uniforms are about retarded with the black pants, but it was good to be able to make that judgement for myself with your help. They might as well make the band wear Canadian Mountee hats. Anyways, good work from a fellow developer.

Dennis: CRIMSON and BLUE, CRIMSON and BLUE, CRIMSON and BLUE, CRIMSON and BLUE…

The school colors are CRIMSON and BLUE. Not crimson, blue, and black (or navy blue, or any other 3rd color). We act like we’re ashamed of it instead of proud of it when at least 50% of the new band uniform is black. Black as an accent is one thing, but black in these uniforms is a major color element, in fact the largest single color element.

I am happy that the band was able to raise money for uniforms so quickly. It shows that people care. I wonder, however, if the money would have rolled in so readily if people had known we were going to abandon the school colors?

I hated it when the football team decided to wear colors other than the traditional ones, and I hate the band doing it too. The football team gets new uniforms fairly often, but the band will likely be stuck with this mistake for years to come. Don’t make it.

CRIMSON and BLUE, CRIMSON and BLUE, CRIMSON and BLUE, CRIMSON and BLUE…

Keith: I want my money back.

Since Jim Hudson took over, I’ve been pleased with so much that he has done to help revive the band after three unbelievably painful years… I had truly believed that his mission was to restore all that is good about the KU Marching Jayhawks. But the selection of BLACK is absolutely the worst decision I could have conceived. mizZOO is our most hated enemy. NO Jayhawk ever wears black!

Even more disturbing are the arguments made FOR the new uniforms: Emily writes that “It shouldn’t matter what we look like.” Shouldn’t MATTER? We paid $150,000 so it wouldn’t MATTER? Emily, you know nothing of the heritage of the KU Band if you think it shouldn’t matter what the band looks like. Before your time, Emily, shoes had to be polished, collars had to be snapped, shakos were worn PROPERLY and Mr. Foster made sure that every time we put on the KU Band uniform, we were reminded that every detail about our appearance mattered!

Chloe isn’t concerned with the opinions of former Marching Jayhawks: YOU are not wearing them. WE are! Wrong, Chloe. When you don the Marching Jayhawk uniform, you represent DECADES of students who came before you. Students, like myself, who never let the image of the band sink to the level it has reached in the last four years.

It sickens me that the band, the most visible element of the Student Body, would ever be seen in anything other than the school colors. Change IS difficult. But change for the SAKE of change is appalling when it’s made without consideration for the greater good. Our University’s image, the pride we take in wearing the CRIMSON and the BLUE, and the stubborn, steadfast rejection of ANYTHING Missourian far outweighs any whimsical decision that will affect all alumni and fans of the Marching Jayhawks for years to come.

The black uniforms look awful. They represent the colors of a hated rival. They reflect the need of a handful of students to be in a Drum & Bugle Corps rather than a University Marching Band. They’re wrong, and I want my money back from the Feather the Flock campaign.

Cassie: Let me tell you a couple things about marching bands getting new uniforms. It takes a lot of work. My junior year in high school we were designing new uniforms for my senior year. It took a few different prototypes to get what we wanted. That is why it is called a prototype. We did get new uniforms that we extremly different from the previous ones. It was hard to get used to, but it looks nice now.

The black is not used to “hide” bad marching style. It doesn’t do a thing because it doesn’t blend into the field. The only color that you could used to hide anything was green pants AND green shoes so you blend into the field. Black also doesn’t make any difference in the temperature on the field. It is a heavy, mostly wool uniform, it will be hot no matter what. White pants don’t make it cooler and black doesn’t make it hotter. Black is also formal and classy. If you go to a formal affair what do the guys wear, most of the time, BLACK tuxes or suits, because it’s classy. Why do we use concert black at concert band performances, because it’s classy. Concert band doesn’t use school colors at all, but yet nobody cares, because they listen for how well the band is playing not how they look. A marching band should be judged on how they play and how they march. When I look at any marching band, high school, college, or drum corps I look at the jackets, not the pants.

If you suggest white, then I hope you want to donate money to get them cleaned every week. Even if it isn’t muddy, it’s going to get dirty just by hanging up a week sometimes two after a game. White = problems.

The jackets are great. Some of you probably haven’t even seen all the different ways the jacket can be worn, or the summer jacket. I agree that the cape could be longer.

I am a freshman and have only worn the old uniforms for one season, but I can tell you that as much as I liked them, a new style needed to come about. It wasn’t just the fact that they were old that made then hard. They were heavy to carry and to wear. There were too many peices to risk getting lost. This is a nice change, to keep with tradition, but stay practical. We are college kids, we don’t have all day every day to look for parts or get it cleaned every week.

I love what Mr. Hudson and the rest of the staff have done. This band program needs to be built back up. This comes from the support we have and all the time that Mr. Hudson and others put into building this up. Not on uniforms. If you don’t want to support us because of the uniforms then you aren’t the supporter you think you are. The support should be for the tradition and what we do, no how we look while we are doing in (in the form of uniforms).

Again, thank you to all the band staff for what they have done and the true supporters of the program. I can honestly say that I will always love the Marching Jayhawks. I’m proud to be in the organization no matter what.

Megan: I don’t think I’ve ever, in my entire life, heard anybody whine about a uniform more than I have about these. Who cares the pants are black and it’s not a school color, it looks sharp and when the band is marching, it makes them look very professional. I say we make them purple, then you guys could really have something to complain about.

Brandon: Ok, ladies and gentlemen, for those of you that feel the need to whine and cry over the look of the new uniform, GET A LIFE! Stop complaining! If it wasn’t the amount of black in the uniform, it’d be the look of the Jayhawk on the front. I don’t understand why when change takes place on this campus, why everyone and their brother has to throw their two cents in.

Change is good and its time to move forward. The whole point of this campaign to “Feather the Flock” was to shed the old “duds” and give the band a face lift and bring them into the twenty-first century. I don’t know of too many donors, to this campaign, that would want to pay to keep the same, twenty-something year old uniform, style.

All I have to say is everyone will be impressed with the look of the uniform once we take the field in the fall. I would really like to thank all the donors to the campaign. Mr. Hudson, Dr. Lynch, and everyone in the band department have the best interest of the band and the KU family at heart. They are trying very heart to get uniforms that are both sensible and classy; yet, still combine the traditions of the past with the look of the future. Thanks to everyone envolved in this process.

Dylan: Unless my computer color is off, they’re not using the same color of blue as the football team, so I can’t support them.

John: DON’T CARE FOR ALL THE BLACK EITHER. ESPECIALLY THE BLACK HATS AND “FEATHERS”. IT SEEMS IT DOESN’T MATTER WHAT THE PUBLIC THINKS, ACCORDING TO THE PAPER. THE UNIFORM COLORS AREN’T GOING TO CHANGE. THE BAND ADDS A FESTIVE ATMOSPHERE TO THE GAMES. THE UNIFORMS SHOULD BE BRIGHT.

Clara: The 1950’s KU band uniforms were the most drab uniforms the band has ever worn. Please change the black to KU blue; not the dark blue that looks black.

New uniforms were a need for the band and I hope the current and future members enjoy wearing them.

Ted: I don’t think the black unforms look good at all.

Gary: You would think KU had changed its colors to black & blue by looking at the proposed band uniforms. The design is ok but the tremendous amount of black is not. Two of our children played in the KU band in the 1980’s so we are highly interested in the KU band of now & the future.

Stephanie: The black accents on the uniform make the outfit much too serious and not as light and fun-loving. As the quote in today’s newspaper article said we might as well be callled the funeral flock or the marching mortuary. Since many people of Lawrence donated the money for these uniforms, shouldn’t that have a say in how their money is spent?

Darci: I like the Black uniform.

Mark: I like the new uniforms. I think they look classy and contemporary.

Janet: I just can’t imagine why the Univ. of Kansas band would want to have black and red hats. They look like they belong at Texas Tech. That hodge-podge of black on both ends and crimson and blue in the middle just doesn’t cut the mustard. And, furthermore, I didn’t appreciate the arrogant attitude of Steve Hedden that they had no intention of reconsidering the design based on the opinion of the people who so generously donated to buy the uniforms. Just see how much money they get the NEXT time a call goes out!!

Darin: I think that KU needs to go back to the drawing board on these. They are ugly and black is not a school color. Maybe a Mizzou grad helped design them.

Jay: I think the unifors look classy and are a great improvement over the high school style that was used before. Go ‘Hawks!

Lupe: The Marching Blackbirds uniform is really a disappointment. My roomate in college was in band and I thought up close and on a green field the older style and colors were superior. The fact the the uniforms were black in 1955 is not important to students born after 1975. The “committee” was color blind or just plain blind to put 130 band member in black for a Crimson and Blue football game. Attention the MU band marches into Memorial Stadium. KU is so cheap, we outsourced band to MU! This is the worst “budget cut” ever at KU. Maybe we could have gotten Purple Power band for less money to march at our stadium??? Tip for KU donors don’t give until you see the final product. What a dirty trick to play on loyal Jayhawk supporters. One step forward, two steps back, GO KU!

Carrie: I was pleased to see the new uniforms in the paper this week. I think they are striking and elegant. I am so proud of everyone who contributed to Feather the Flock. It’s a shame that KU did not do anything about this themselves. $150,000 is a drop in the bucket for KU. By the way, I wonder if the people panning the new uniform contributed to Feather the Flock?

Lisa: I can live with the black pants, but I absolutely hate the hat. I do like the versatility in being able to change the jacket for different occasions. And I would like to say that the guy from Wichita who said he wouldn’t make an effort to watch them now – what an idiot!

Mike: Everyone who has said they’d stop supporting the band if they use these designs should be ashamed of themselves. It’s not the students fault, they’re out there putting their best foot forward and playing their heart out.

Personally I think these are some very tight looking uniforms. Not a big fan of the capes, but overall they look very nice.

Brett: Love the new band uniforms! The more I view the photos, the more I like them. I think that the black really helps the crimson and blue shine! I wish I was back in Lawrence so I could see the band in the new uniforms come running out onto the field this fall.

Sherry: Stay true to KU; go with crimson and blue. No black, please.

Joan: I understand that everyone is very excited to spend the money that has just been raised to purchase new uniforms for the marching Jayhawks, however, please don’t disregard the needs of the entire university in the process.

The article about the changing faces of KU was right on target. The University of Iowa got it right fifteen years ago. Visit Colorado, they have it right. Go to Norman, OK and they have it right. Have one consistent visual image that depicts the University. It breeds brand loyalty.

Please be patient and allow the University to have input. You may have to wait a few months longer to wear the new uniforms but they will be the right uniforms to represent the Jayhawks for many years to come.

Michael: would like to express my sadness regarding the new proposed band uniforms. The black pants, shoes and hats are terrible. I always thought the blue uniforms were colorful and representative of KU. I guess I should have asked what the uniforms were going to look like before we contributed to the fund.

Carol: I have been following with interest the stiories concerning the KU Marching Band Unifroms. As a contributor to the fund for these new uniforms I would like to express my opinion of the new style and color. The style seems appropriate with the cape and overlays, to vary the uniform. The color is not! Too much black, especially the hats. Hats are a focal point when marching informationand black does not draw attention to that particular allignment. The black has got to go! Stick with the crimson and blue, with a little white for accent.

Suzanne: I hope it is not too late for them to change the uniform. It should be crimson & blue! (and red, of course). I can see that the black would maybe be more practical and easier to keep looking nice, but tradition should be more important in this situation. I loved the colors of the old uniforms. When the band marched out on the field there was not doubt what university they represented. Recently the band was awarded the Sudler Trophy, which is awarded to the nation’s finest university marching band. I’m sure the uniforms played a part in that decision. They are just “happy”, with bright, cheery colors that grabbed your attention. It would be a shame to “drabdown” our wonderful band!

Pam: We saw the new uniforms at an exhibit at KMEA in Wichita on Friday. The new uniforms are striking, along with being very versatile for the band members. It will be a dramatic entrance the band makes on the field in September and I for one plan to be there to see it.

Kent: If that is what you are going to pick, I would have saved some of the money for Duct tape to cover the pants…….could not look any worse. I unfortunately had to go to medical school at MIZZOU (Mo resident). I had an offer to march at Mizzou and turned it down because of my Marchin’ Jayhawk roots. I could have worn this uniform in Columbia. Ouch……

Jay: As a member of last years Marching Jayhawks, I was conflicted if I would return next year. After seeing that hideous uniform, it has convincingly told me that I don’t need to come back and wear a uniform I do not support one bit. Call me a conservative, but there is a lot to be said about tradition, and black isn’t a true tradition to this fine university.

Dustin: Current KU Band Members: After reading the comments on this page I almost feel that I wasted the last five years of my life wearing the uniform of the “proud” marching jayhawks. As you will unfortunately learn… the “supporters” of this university and organization have made a habit of trying to build pride by tearing people down. It sickens me that I have represented them. This is why it has been difficult to be in the marching band. I greatly admire all of you who are in band and who have stuck it out even when those who claim to support you only want to degrade. Most if not all of those who have submitted opinions have absolutely no knowledge about marching bands today (yet I’m sure they are all self-proclaimed experts). This band was never as good as many people would try to make you believe. The aclaim was mostly due to the “good-ol-boy” network that a former director was a part of. Do not take these comments personally. Keep doing the things you do.

To Elizabeth and Derek: Would you like me to tell everyone about your “dedication” to the marching jayhawks and how you both quit after giving soooo many good years of service?

Greg: I loved the idea that KU was finally going to replace the ancient uniforms that were coming apart when I was carrying a Sousaphone in the Band in the 80’s; I even dug down into my wallet for some donation money at a time when I really didn’t have it. Now I find out that THIS is what I donated for? Chloe, I recommend that you stop to consider that the best way to rebuild the current band is with the wholehearted cooperation and support of the band alumni and KU alumni in general. I loved my experiences in the Band, and hope that the rebuilding of the Band continues, so that many more generations of the Jayhawk faithful can come and watch their friends, family, and children march as a part of one of the greatest Marching Bands to ever take the field. All that being said; I do not like the black pants much, like the black gloves even less, and the Black hat and plume are awful. I agree that the new uniforms are desperately needed, and that change is a good thing;!

But KU is NOT a drum corps, (or a high school band!), and the amount of black in this uniform is not a good thing. It may be too late to change this; that’s too bad. A Jayhawk is a Crimson, Blue and Maize (yellow) bird, and the flock’s faithful are not out of place in their puzzlement about this color choice. I wish the Band, the current staff, and future Marching Jayhawks all the best; continue your efforts to improve, and may those efforts be successful.

Devin: I had a chance to see the new uniforms up close this past week at KMEA, and I must say that I am very impressed with the look that Mr. Hudson and the Fruhauf team have designed. It is a very flexible and progressive uniform that retains many popular elements of past uniform designs.

I am disappointed that some KU fans, especially former members of the Marching Jayhawks, are panning the new uniforms in the manner in which they are doing. Many are aware only of their own experience, or even worse ignoring facts. The Marching Jayhawks have worn blue uniforms for only about a third of its existence. In the late sixties, new band leadership decided it was time for something new. Today, the new band leadership has decided it is time for something new.

From a design standpoint, lack of a neutral color in KU’s school colors is problematic. For the past thirty-some years, white has been used for contrast. Eyes are drawn to contrast, like the crimson and white overlay, and unfortunately the white shoes. Removing that contrast takes makes the eyes look for something else. Step-offs may still be missed, and they will still be noticed, but probably only by those looking for missed step-offs. Some say white pants could be substituted. Having been drum major, I can assure you it is not a good idea at all. Dirty white pants are inevitable when performing in an outdoor venue.

Not only do black pants and black shoes make perfect design sense, they are much easier to keep clean. The design and cost aspect is why many corps and marching bands are making that move, as well as the belief that darker uniforms are sharper-looking. It is in no way meant to disrespect the history, recent or otherwise, of the Marching Jayhawks, nor of the university. There is still plenty of color in the jacket and overlay that should keep one’s attention, not to mention other elements of the performance like the instruments, overall drill form, and most importantly the music being played.

Change is inevitable. Some complain about the lack of tradition in the new uniform. I see plenty of tradition. I see a lot of hard work that went into incorporating that tradition into the new uniform. Aesthetically, it is much different than what people are used to. People may not have to like it, but they will definitely have to deal with. This change was not made for the sake of change, it was made to reflect the times we live in.

Jana: Black is to hot for a band uniform. What is black about the KU Jayhawks? All the money being spent, and they can’t come up with better colors? Thanks.

Dan: So disappointed! For all those defending the new design with the “corp style” argument, I’ve got news for you: This is a university marching band, not a DCI corps. The primary function is to entertain and rally the fans at football games and other pep rallys. It is NOT to show us how artistically creative you can be as if a halftime show was some type of judged event.

Frankley I’m tired of the lame halftime shows featuring soloists that cannot be heard in the stadium (duh) and the huge immobile percussion section with instruments that have no place in a MARCHING BAND. The pregame show is the only thing I enjoy anymore and I believe the decline of the band is directly linked to this transition to the “corps” style. That is simply not want football fans want to see.

As angry as everyone is about the black pants, did anyone notice the blue on blue “KU” on the shoulder that won’t be seen? How about the silly looking oversized piping around the shoulders or the total lack of any detaied embroidery or frills? Also, the black shoes are certainly chosen to minimize undisiciplined footwork – do not believe otherwise.

Chuck: I like the uniform, it is sharp. Nothing wrong with the black trim etc. expecially shoes and gloves.

Chris: All I can say is that it is a good thing the uniforms were not unveiled until AFTER you raised the money for them. These uniforms represent one of the greatest lapses in judgement I have ever seen at KU. Why stop at black? Why not go ahead and wear gold too? Heck, while we’re at it why don’t we change our mascot to the Tiger?

This is extremely dissappointing. I don’t understand why certain parts of KU (namely the band and football team) seem to be ashamed of our university colors. Good luck raising money for your next set of uniforms after the travesty of this misguided fiasco!

Kurtis: The KU Marching Band’s new uniform reminded me of my negative reaction when I saw Lawrence Free State High Basketball team’s black uniforms. You’ve got to be kidding. Black? It is awful!

Kellie: I’m sorry that everyone seems to feel the need to be as negative as possible for the KU Marching Band. They have worked their tails off for you! Whether you’re a marching band alum, current student, a contributor to the Feather the Flock Campaign, or anyone else, QUIT COMPLAINING or at least wait until you see the entire band in the fall to make judgments…you might just change your minds on the whole “black is bad” controversy!

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THE NEW UNIFORM DESIGN. Mr. Hudson, Dr. Lynch, and all of the KU staff who were a part of this process did everything they could to incorporate something for everyone. There are so many looks that can come from this single design…which is a pretty brilliant way to look good, stay interesting, and keep them lasting longer. I was thrilled to see the overwhelming financial support by the community…obviously you all cared enough to WANT new uniforms…but in this town, no matter what you do to try, it seems you can’t please everyone.

Fruhauf used the prototype as their feature uniform at the Kansas Music Educator’s Association Convention this week and the comments from people across the state were nothing but positive. It’s a shame to come home and read such filth about it in the newspaper and online. We appreciate the positive support that we HAVE received. You can’t tell from the message boards, but people honestly do like the design! Unfortunately, opposition just tends to have the louder voice…

Just wait and see…the KU Marching Band is going to do amazing things over the course of the next several years under Mr. Hudson’s direction NO MATTER WHAT the colors of the uniform. I will be one of the MANY, MANY, MANY students in the KU Marching Band in the fall who will be delighted and proud to wear these BEAUTIFUL uniforms.

And by the way, it IS a done deal…so put on your happy faces and try supporting the marching band for a change.

Mary: I have seen the uniform and the J-W photos don’t accurately show the bright blue color of the jacket which will contrast well against the black pants. It will be a very elegant look-and elegant is a word I have never associated with Mizzoo or Colorado. I am very disappointed in the ugly comments posted about the uniforms. It seems the students who will be actually wearing the uniforms are proud of them. Don’t diminish their pleasure with hateful comments. We alums had our day as Marching Jayhawks. Let our current Marching Jayhawks enjoy THEIRS with more support and less criticism. I trust them to represent us all well-just as those who marched before us trusted our generation.

Shannon: To all of you who are complaining about the new uniforms: give them a chance you won’t know what they will be like until the members of the Marching Jayhawks take the field for the first game in September. Have faith in the band staff and the people who designed the uniforms they know what they are doing.

I agree with you Dustin, you took the words right out of my mouth, way to be.

Scott: I just returned from Wichita where the new uniform design was displayed at the Kansas Music Educators Convention. For those critical of black in the color scheme, I say wait until you see the uniform in person for the J-W photo does not do it justice. The black pants draw attention to to the various overlay designs in Crimson & Blue that are really striking & handsome. The black “West Point” Plume and hat are also really striking to see in person, and again contrast the overlay designs. The black really fades in the background, making the crimson & blue actually stand out even more in contrast.

The 1981 uniform now in use was great for its day, but the KU Band in recent years when compared to other more up to date uniforms looked really 2nd rate. No one is wearing Blue Pants in the shade needed to be our school colors anymore. It simply looks out of style. I have been seeing black combined with the color schemes of many school colors in marching bands for at least a decade now. They look good and allow the band to look more uniform. The new uniform combines BOTH a more traditional overlay for Pre-Game much like the 1981 uniform, as well as a more up to date corp style look for half time.

The Cape with its “KU” on the back in Blue with a Crimson background is beautiful. The black pants again make this cape stand out even more. The design mimics in a more updated way-the current “wings” in the 1981 uniform.

My final thoughts is to say wait until you see them in person. The problem with on line forums such as this is that it almost always takes on a negative tone. As older marching band alums point out-black was a part of the color scheme for many years-people need to be careful when they declare they know what “tradition” is violated. Tradition goes back much further than the 1981 uniform. Fans of the band also need to realize that the band staff also are the ones who are keeping up to date with what other bands are wearing. I am confident that within a season-no one will remember or care about this discussion, perhaps later criticizing a future uniform for leaving our “black pant tradition”.

Bonnie: So much black is a disappointment.

Lynn: I have already stated my opinion about the uniforms, but at this time I would like to make a few comments to everyone making negative remarks about the Marching Jayhawks.

As a current Marching Jayhawk I would like to express my disappointment in some of the people slamming us! No matter who you are, foot techniques will NEVER be perfect. Unless you march day and night and are trained to do it with percission! My brothers who are in the US Marine Corps. are one of the few who can pick up the smallest mistakes in marching techniques, and I can tell you they were impressed with the Marching Jayhawks last season. Not because of our marching technique but because of our effort and heart put into the shows! No matter what color of pants or shoes a band wears, someone will always catch a mistake. So unless you are out there with us giving it all you got, please keep your comments to yourself!

It is also ashame to hear some people say that they want their money back or they are not going to come watch us. Do you realize how bad that makes you sound? I have never been embarassed to be a Jayhawk until I read some of those comments! I am hurt to think that just last season, the Marching Jayhawks actualy tried to impress and showcase our talents to you!

To supporters of the Marching Jayhawks:

Thank you for your encouraging words and your kind donations for the new uniforms!

Karen: As being a member of the Marching Jayhawks, I have to say that I absoulutely love the new uniform. The pants are black, so what, get over it! In these times black pants are the popular color because it’s considered neutral, and they pull your attention to the jacket which is the main piece of the uniform.

What don’t you people understand? In the past 100 years of band history the uniform for 75 years was predominantly black until the past 25 years when it was predominantly blue, so now we are trying to take 100 years and make a new uniform using our traditions.

You people who are complaining about not watching the band now are only hurting yourselves because not only we are the best marching band in the Big VII but we also now have the best uniform that can be worn six different ways….the other marching bands can’t do that. Do you not want your marching band to be the best looking? And when it comes down to it we are wearing the uniform,we are the ones sweating, practicing and working our butts off to represent the band. We don’t see you out there marching beside us.

The marching band likes the new uniform and our director, James Hudson is trying to take your precious traditions and make them last, well throughout our band program, black has been tradtion. Rock Chalk! Feather the Flock!

Carol: I have been following with interest the stiories concerning the KU Marching Band Unifroms. As a contributor to the fund for these new uniforms I would like to express my opinion of the new style and color. The style seems appropriate with the cape and overlays, to vary the uniform. The color is not! Too much black, especially the hats. Hats are a focal point when marching informationand black does not draw attention to that particular allignment. The black has got to go! Stick with the crimson and blue, with a little white for accent.

Michael: would like to express my sadness regarding the new proposed band uniforms. The black pants, shoes and hats are terrible. I always thought the blue uniforms were colorful and representative of KU. I guess I should have asked what the uniforms were going to look like before we contributed to the fund.

Tim: Did anyone consider black is very hot to wear. How many band members will pass out this year?

Linda: Please pass along to band director. The uniforms are horrible; they look like the toy soldiers in “The Nutcracker”. Please, at least make the hats blue.

Lawrence: >What needs to be done, apparently, is to get rid of the Dean of Fine Arts, who in typical elitist arrogance-which KU officials have displayed many times in the past-completely disregards and devalues the comments made by the majority of fans on the black uniforms which I, too, find to be a very poor choice.

Let’s get rid of Deans such as this one who are so antagonistic to the value of public opinion vs. select, elite committees! As is true of so many academics, these people need to get out of (or be removed from) their ivory tower.

Kent: The BLACK has to go – not too late yet!!!

Bryce: My wife and I were in the Marching band in the late 1970’s. Had we seen the new uniforms before we gave money we would not have donated anything. They are ugly. The overwhelming sentiment of everyone I know who has seen them now is that they are ugly. Ugly, Ugly, Ugly.

Derek: I didn’t realize the full name of the uniform campaign was “Tar and Feather the Flock”. That would explain all the black…

John: I can see partial shots of what seems to be 3 different uniforms on the web. Of the 3, the oldest style just shows a torso and red lapel with a Jayhawk. It seems to be similar to what the band wore previous to the current uniform. I can not comment on this as I can not see the full look. As for the overlay that looks like the current uniform, I like the overlay but have to say that the overall look is just plain ugly. The black, white and blue together are nasty. If this was to appease alumni for the past 40 years, the designers have failed miserably. Dump it or go with blue pants. The newest looking uniform looks like former uniforms of the Blue Devils D&B Corps. I like this with the exception of the cape. Bands used to wear one major color on the front and another on the back for a major color change effect when reversing field. In todays amoeba shaped marching drills this effect is not necessary and totally lost. The cape is not necessary. I can get used to the last uniform with so much black. Overall, the committee made major compromises to get the Blue Devil looking uniform somebody obviously wanted. I still don’t understant the need for 3 different uniforms? I am afraid that they have comprised the quality of the uniform by getting 3 looks. It might have been wiser to stick with one or two and get better color matches, workmanship and longevity. Glad I donated as new uniforms were badly needed.

Duane: I love our school colors . . . Crimson and Blue! Perhaps fashion designers smarter than I could come up with what outsiders might consider more appealing, using an array of colors. But those of us who are “Jayhawkers and proud of it” don’t see other colors on the palet from which the colors of our uniforms are chosen. We shouldn’t be surprised that this problem would arise, though. Our athletic department can’t even decide which shade of blue is “Jayhawk Blue!” Each sport seems to have license to choose its own shade. Call me silly, but I’d say that “Jayhawk Blue” is that blue found on the Jayhawk.

Pat: I have been a Jayhawk fan for 50 years and have had season football tickets for many of those years. Those have to be the ugliest uniforms that I have ever seen. KU colors are crimson and blue so what’s with the black. I can’t believe anyone would even consider those uniforms. KU’s marching band uniforms have always been the sharpest looking of any I have seen so why change?

Jim: Ah, youth. Gotta love their intensity and enthusiasm. I don’t like these uniforms, but I will admit that I admire your spirit in sticking up for them.

The 1968?-1981 uniforms were pretty similar to the 1982 set. Blue jackets, blue pants, predominantly red overlay.

Think about it this way: The last Marching Jayhawks to wear black uniforms were born before 1950. There are a whole lot of people out there to whom a black uniform is not a recognizable part of our tradition. 35+ years of blue is a lot of history to throw by the wayside. Let us mourn it a bit.

Barbara: There are 4 children and 13 grandchildren in my family that are totally opposed to the new uniforms. We did not support the “feather the flock” campaign to see the marching jayhawks run through the tunnel wearing a color that is not even a school color. The pants, shoes, hats, gloves, and half of the jacket are black! That is ridiculous for a school that prides itself on the Crimson and Blue!

Jeremy: I hate the new uniforms! What university committee would agree to killing the Crimson and Blue by introducing BLACK as the base color!! All you have to do to make these uniforms work is replace all of the black with BLUE!! I don’t even know why black was even thought of for the new uniforms.

Herschel: Have you ever seen a black Jayhawk? No, neither have I. True, many years ago we did have black uniforms on the Marching Jayhawks. I didn’t like black then, and I certainly don’t like it now. Black is for Missouri Tigers, or Colorado Buffaloes – but not Jayhawks. We have bright, uplifting colors of Crimson and Blue. Let the Committee rethink this abomination of Black Jayhawks. Not on your life would it be so easy to raise money for the band, or for other projects, if we keep thinking BLACK. Ugh!

Peter: As the University of Kansas goes forth with new band uniforms and ultimately, will propose a new logo/identity scheme, the Journal-World needs to comply. Your style guide is to use “kansas university” which is inconsistent and annoying. It is THE UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS. Please change your style….a disgruntled alumnus who reads you every day.

Kim: As a current member of the KU Marching Band, I am saddened to see all of the critical remarks from the public. I am thoroughly impressed by the uniforms and all of the work that has gone into the design by Mr. Hudson, Dr. Lynch and others. I am not quite sure what all of the fuss is about…. The new uniform is constructed of the two “traditional” uniforms from the past 100 years. For those of you who don’t know, 75 of the 100 years had uniforms with black pants. It has only been the past 25 years that the uniform pants were changed to blue. As a university that thrives on traditions, it seems rather ironic to nag at the very example of incorporating both old and new. The black pants look stunning with the rest of the uniform. They really bring out the CRIMSON AND BLUE coat. For those of you who are complaining about the black pants looking like MU and Colorado, believe in the YOUR Jayhawk spirit and YOUR KU Marching Band – we’re doing this for YOU! I can’t wait to show off our new uniforms at the first game. Thanks to everyone else who stands by the Marching Band and doesn’t stoop to the level of these “true and loyal” KU supporters.

Steve: I feel that the tradition of the K.U. Marching band is the TRADITIONAL Crimson and Blue not black and blue, I really don’t like them at all.

Terran: Get back to the drawing board on the unis and do it now kids. They’re ugly, dated, and the kids will drop like flies in black uni’s come next summer.

John: Does the guy in the picture look like Count Dracula, or what? Let’s all stand and sing a chorus of The Crimson and the Blue & Black. Pathetic. Glad I didn’t contribute.

Brandon: Yea they look sharp maybe but our colors are specifically stated CRIMSON…&BLUE… Nowhere in there is there BLACK(sick) CU and Misery are BLACK not the KANSAS JAYHAWKS.

Janet: As the parent of a Marching Jayhawk and a Music teacher, I am very pleased to see the thought that has gone into the new uniforms. It appears that the blending of tradition and the new has been well pictured. Marching Jayhawks are Marching Jayhawks, not because of the color they wear, but because of their hard work and dedication to Jayhawk excellence. I commend the band director for the work that he has done, the hours of research and thought and planning that have gone into the uniform selection process. Jawhawks ascribe to a higher level of excellence and I thank those who give their time and talents to keep JAYHAWK traditions and excellence alive. ROCK CHALK JAYHAWKS!

John: Black uniforms! That is porgress? It reminds me of a black bouquet of dead flowers. Is that the direction of our band.? I can remember when our marching band was at times the hit of a Fall Saturday afternoon. Are we moving toward the generic look? Please, crimson and blue are the school colors!

Bill: Speaking as someone who has had to purchase new uniforms for a band, I can tell you that the black pants have become pretty much the standard for band uniforms in the last 10 years. The coat is the one part that most people put the design elements into. Pants for modern band uniforms are designed to be functional and allow the marchers to move without over-stretching the uniforms-believe me you don’t want to be wearing a uniform in front of 50,000 people and have the pants split right up the back!

Could they have gotten a different color pants? Sure. But that would likely have added a lot to an already high cost. Someone else made this comment-the black is just a base color; the jacket can stand out and will be more visible if anything. One thing that I think was wasted-the stripes on the shako (that’s a hat for those that don’t know). Personally, I also think a white plume looks better than black. I only had to wear the old uniform once (at an infamous fundraiser in Kansas City in 1996!) and that was more than enough. Congratulations on the new ones!

Nancy: Why not continue with KU blue pants? I join the throng opposed to the black components of the new Marching Jayhawk band uniforms.

The one thing the black and silver will do is present a striking visual, based on the many high school bands and drum corps I have seen that incorporate black.

But, I would prefer sticking with the school’s colors (and white shoes).

Kris: Has the whole city gone mad?!

What are you people thinking? You know we could could stop playing at football games,but we won’t because we support our school no matter what.I believe that this town is showing the worst spirit ever. With the comments being made one would think that you were all from a certain town in Missouri. How hard is it to support us? I think that we be supported no matter what also.

Jim: As A contributor to the ‘Feather the Flock’ campaign, I am more offended now by the bandmembers that are basically telling us contributors to just sit down and shut up about these awful uniforms. If I had known the band members were such jerks, I wouldn’t have contributed a dime much less as much as I did. I can assure you several bandmembers are being outfitted by my donation.

That being said, I have heard the same band members say “it’s bringing us in the 21st century” yet these uniforms use a 50s look to justify the existance of black in them. Seems to me that’s a huge step backward not forward.

There is no doubt the band needed new uniforms but these are horrible. The band will be performing at two football games every year where they will have more in common with the opposition team than the team they are supposed to be supporting. KU’s band will not look sharp but look like a fashion faux pas on parade.

I have always supported KU generously when money was needed for special causes such as this as well as the athletic department. In some 22 years of doing so, this is the first time I can say I wish I hadn’t donated a thing. The attitude of the current bandmembers and the design of the uniforms both leave a lot to be desired.

Fran: Not only do I not like the black at all, but the little cape looks as if it’s part of a Halloween costume. It is also too short.

KU needs to get a uniform (no pun intended) shade of blue and red. I live in Nebraska and there is only ONE shade of red for the Huskers. UNC has Carolina blue which is one consistant shade for all merchandise. Isn’t our cheer “Go Big BLUE”?

The shade of Blue should be the shade that is used on the Jayhawk on the floor in Allen Fieldhouse. Or if you really want to follow tradition, the colors should be Harvard crimson and Yale blue since these are the basis for our school colors. But the black has got to go! And why not use yellow as the accent color instead of white? Has anyone noticed just how much yellow there is in our mascot?

Kim: We seriously thought about giving money for the new band uniforms. We are now thrilled that we did not waste our money on such hideous uniforms. I don’t care how many excuses you give for including black hats, gloves, and pants, it was an awful decision on someones part. We feel the color scheme looks more appropriate for a New Orleans funeral than a Jayhawk football game.

Marie: One of the things most praised at KU is respect for tradition. One of the oldest and strongest traditions is the marching jayhawks. Mr. Hudson has utilized the wealth of that tradition and has created uniforms which encompass all of the past, present and future of the marching jayhawks. Each piece of the uniform, can be directly matched to a rich Kansas tradition. In this new century when the KU marching jayhawks are trying to re-ignite the tradition and glory of the ensemble, what better way to usher in this new era, than with a fabulous director and uniforms that honor and improve upon our rich band tradition. I look forward to wearing my uniform next year with pride.

Bethany: I would like to commend Mr. Hudson for taking a great deal of his time while designing the uniforms to research the different uniforms worn by the KU marching Jayhawks throughout history.The uniforms are composed of many interchangeable pieces, each of which is based on an aspect of the bands history. I think the care taken by Mr. Hudson in the design of these stunning new uniforms is indicative of his personal character and his deep respect for the wealth of traditions at the University of Kansas in general and of the Marching Jayhawks secifically. I look forward to seeing the Band on the field at Memorial Stadium in the new uniforms, next fall. I expect we will see great things from the KU Marching Jayhawks in the near future under the direction of Mr. Hudson.

Dan: Some of my earliest memories of my childhood are going to KU football games with my father and watching the marching Jayhawks perform. When I got of age I played football for Jayhawks for five years and during that time did I unfortunatly did not get a chance to see our marching Jayhawks perform once. However, with the addition of black to the uniforms I may have to ask coach Mangino if he will let me grab a seat in the locker room at halftime, rather than have to look at those ugly attempts for uniforms. Lets be true to our past KU’s colors are crimson and blue, not black. It’s not to late to fix this obvious mistake.

Courtney: As a member of the Marching Jayhawks for three-going on four-years, I feel compelled to express my thoughts about the new uniforms and about the comments I have read in this forum.

I admit, I was very hesitant about black with the uniform. I thought, “our colors are crimson and blue!” But after I saw the uniform in person, I changed my tune. These uniforms look amazing, the jacket is so beautiful, the picture in the paper does not do it justice at all. The black pants serve to move the focus to the great jacket. These uniforms are just as unique as the previous ones. How many college marching bands have uniforms that can be worn six different ways? We can come out in pregame with the white overlay, and then come out for halftime in the west pointe jacket. That, to me, is one of the most unique and one of the best things about these new uniforms. The black pants will make the entire band look slim and trim. The black hat and black plume will make the band look taller. I know I will be standing very tall when I wear these uniforms next fall. And for those of you that say that black is too hot-yes. It is. I wore a uniform with black pants at Lawrence High School. But blue is hot also. Our blue is a dark enough blue that we burn up anyways. Not to mention the numerous layes that the old uniform had. A jacket is enough to make you sweat, but when you added an overlay on that, it just made it 100 times worse. And the fact that the uniforms are wool does not help that either. But with these uniforms, and through the generous donations, we have been able to get a very lightweight fabric jacket in addition to the wool one. That way, during the first games of the year when it is 100 degrees out, we won’t have to suffocate. These uniforms have been designed with the marcher in mind. And did you know that the jayhawk from the previous uniforms, the exact design of that jayhawk, is going on these new uniforms? And if you are mad about black shoes, just be glad that KU will NEVER wear spats on their black shoes, like a certain Texas Tech band. Like Dee said above, if we REALLY wanted to hide our foot technique, we would’ve used green shoes. I am very proud of these new uniforms! The old ones were great, yes. But it is time for a change. We were the laughing stock of the Big 12 with those old, dated uniforms. I can’t tell you how many games I went to and felt ashamed because of the way our previous uniforms made us look. The length of the jacket and the wings made us look bulky. The white plume made us look short. The stripes on the pants made us look wide. While other bands’ uniforms serve to make them look uniform and proud and clean, ours, while cool looking, didn’t do that. We all looked different-different lengths of overlays, different color blues, hats that were in bad need of repair. Blue fades. My pants and jacket didn’t match. My jacket was definitly not KU blue. Our new uniforms will make us the pride of the Big 12. We have these awesome new uniforms, and it came from the help of the community. What does that say about KU? It says that the Lawrence community has a lot of pride in their band-enough to generously donate money to help “feather the flock.” That says a lot about Lawrence, and personally, that is the best part of the uniform. That the public is what made it happen. Everyone who donated money has made this change possible. And while you are in disagreement now, I know that many, if not all, will change you tune in the fall when you see our spectacular new uniforms march down the hill. I speak for every marching band member when I say thank you. You all have made this possible.

That’s why it hurts so much to read that some of you wish you could take back your money. How could you say something like that? You were generous and giving enough to donate money to this awesome cause, how could you be so selfish and petty as to want to take it back? That hurts a lot. KU isn’t that kind of place. KU is the place where we stand behind our band, no matter what the color of the pants are. If you truly love this organization, then you will support us, even if you don’t like the uniform. Places like MU are where people want to take back donations and speak ugly words about not supporting the band because they don’t like the uniform. I love being at KU because of all the support for the band. And when people say such wretched and horrible things, it really brings down my faith in the public. Yes, everyone is entitled to their opinion, and I realize that some of you don’t like the design. And you more than entitled to express that opinion. And none of us marching band members are trying to shut any of you up. We are just frustrated at the comments that some of you are making. We love this organization and are very proud of it, and when we have people who say such hurtful things, then it really strikes a bad note with us. Yes, we recognize that you do not like some aspects of the uniform. But do we have to keep arguing and throwing punches about this? I invite all of you to come to a Marching Jayhawk event next fall, and see the uniforms in person. You can’t accuratly make a judgement about them through a newspaper or internet picture. These uniforms are the new pride of the Marching Jayhawks, so please, keep that in mind. I wish that I could personally thank each and every one of you, but there are so many people who donated, it is impossible. I thank the alums, for giving the marching band it’s pride. Without your dedication and support, then we wouldn’t have what we do now. I thank the donators, without your help, we would still be wearing the same tattered, torn, and dated uniforms next year. You have all restored the faith and pride into the Marching Jayhawks.

Karen: The black portions of the new uniform are ugly! Who in the world added black to the KU color scheme? The hat looks like something that Imperial Storm Troopers might wear. The overall design of the uniform is good but the use of black gives the uniform a “Darkside” feel and is in my opinion terrible!

Morgy: Bravo! It’s about time the Marching Jayhawks looked post-1970’s. I remember when the color guard started adapting their uniforms to match the styles of their shows (they looked so good last fall)! I do not believe the black detracts from the school colors at all. It looks classy and makes the crimson and blue stand out much better against the green field. Attention will be drawn to the upper body, and less frills will give way to a cleaner appearance. And now that the band is marching and playing better (the Hudsons rock!), the drill forms will be easier to read. It’s too bad the feature in the paper mislabeled which uniform was corps-style and which one was the back-side of the overlay. I’d like the corps-style one better without the cape. Keep up the excellent work, band staff, and we’ll see a return in strength of the Marching Jayhawks.

Mark: I don’t think the funds would have been raised if the uniforms were shown first. How disappointing! KU already has crimson, blue, and yellow. The last thing we need to do is introduce another color- Misery Black! Please change your mind!

Tara: My initial reaction was that the uniform looks cheap. The jacket with the white chest, smallish Jayhawk on the front and surrounded by so much black makes the uniform look like you picked the wrong top to go with the bottoms. They do not match whatsoever. The second model with the majority blue/red jacket does match better with the black pants; although it is a tad dark.

Thank you for getting rid of the stipe down the pants which only points out the entire world who is out of step. As a former band member at Lawrence High School and at Emporia State University, I have been through uniform changes at both places. I can see the dilemma about what pants to put with the jackets. I honestly think the blue of the jacket would have been just fine. White shoes, no gloves and a blue hat with red/white or blue/white plumes.

It’s silly how “tradition” oriented the people up at KU are and to go back to the 1960’s and PRIOR is a mistake. There’s a reason those uniforms are out of style now!!! It IS possible to have a world class band uniform (AND basketball arena) without disturbing “tradition”!!!

Kate: First of all, I would like to say that I have not read all of the stories posted, nor do I have the desire to do so. I am very disappointed those who post their opinions in a negative manner. The band directors were neither forced to raise money nor to order new uniforms. They did so because of pride for our university and our band. The “fashion” to which they have been recieved is appalling. Under the best of intentions, they took donations from generous people of the community and put that money to good use; what it was intended for. (Now, before I proceed, I would like to let those doners know that we all greatly appreciate the actions they took to support the university.) However, upon donating their money to the band directors, the doners put their faith into the hands of others (the directors) to decide what is best for the band. These hardworking people considered many options to create a uniform that the students, faculty, alumni, etc. will be proud to see on the field. I see no reason to ridicule the band directors for their decisions. We ALL put our faith into their hands to devise a unique and appropriate uniform. These people work for the university, and they chose what they thought would represent the university at its finest. If those of you, who are so displeased with the choices made for the University of Kansas Marching Band, want to make a change YOU deem satisfying, I not only suggest, but challenge you to this: Get yourself a degree, get hired, and work for the University so you can make all the decisions for the band. Otherwise, be content with what our respectable band directors have chosen and support the Marching Jayhawks this fall.

JP: I totally appreciate where both sides of the folks in this argument are coming from. The one thing that I don’t think any of the current students/bandmembers are understanding is that the reason folks are so upset is because they care so much about the KU band. For those of you who think the folks who are posting criticism are trying to be mean, I don’t think that’s the case. They’re doing it because they love the KU band so much. They love the band and they love the university.

Sarah: I really like the overlay, but that black needs to head right back to Columbia. A zillion years ago I was in Marching Mizzou and our uniforms were all black – with a white belt. This looks like you’re imitating the neighbors to the East – not something that’s smart or desirable to do.

I could live with the pants – and the shoes are a good idea, especially now that the pride in the band appears to be gone and details like keeping in step are out of fashion. (But lay off the tuba players!! You should try to carry one of those things!!)

Those black hats and gloves look like they were designed for military funerals – gloomy and hideous. The model’s hands completely disappear – no gloves is far preferable to this. The short cape and cutsey sleeve caps make me think of “The Jetsons” and the 1960’s – I don’t see a thing “modern” about it.

When people lament the decline of the band, they’re overlooking the real cause – a new administration which thought of Robert Foster as someone to be run off is the problem. Sure, Bob could be corny sometimes, but his band was constantly coached in having pride in themselves and KU – and great respect for the traditions of the band. That’s something far too precious to lose.

A final word to the current members who say it’s THEIR band, not “for the past” – shame on you! You are just a passing part of something far bigger than your petty sense of self-importance. The people who built the institution for you to enjoy – and to pass on to the next generation – have a far better sense of perspective than you do at your young age. And while it doesn’t matter to you, it’s a very real fact that it’s not YOU who are footing the bill – that money came from people who have appreciated and enjoyed what Russell Wiley and Robert Foster built. You have a LOT to learn.

Cassie: I posted once already about the uniforms, but as I keep reading these I still have some more things to say.

To those of you that have always supported the band in one way or another, I thank you. For those of you that still do, I also thank you. For the rest of you that don’t want to support us because we have a new uniform that most of you haven’t seen in person yet, then I am ashamed to have “supporters” like that. I understand you all have your opinion, you are entilted to it, but please leave all the bashing behind.

Others that I know, I’m not saying you are one of them, have never really cared about the band before. A polite applause at the end of a show and a general feeling that the marching band was just there. Now that we have decided to change the uniform people who have never cared do. Why should the uniform be the reason? Shouldn’t it be because we have improved the program, because we sound better?

Please wait until you see the uniform in person to make a big decision on if you like them. They are a change that will need some getting used to. It’s hard. I’ll admitt it was hard for me to see them at first, because they were that much different. However, the more that I see them the more I like them. Don’t make judgements until you see what happens in the fall.

Again I want to say thank you to all our supports that still support us and to all the band staff that has worked so hard to but this together.

Phil: It’s safe to say no one likes black except for some marching band members. Get a new design team, or you’ll get booed out of the stadium.

Maren: First of all, the premise that the only colors the band can wear to have school spirit are crimson and blue is atrocious. If you go to any football or basketball game on any day of the week, you will see 75% or more of the fans wearing shirts that are neither crimson nor blue, and probably only half of them even have anything to do with KU. Does that mean they care any less about Kansas? No. They paid the same amount for their tickets and will cheer just as hard.

Secondly, as for TRADITION, I think you all are sadly mistaken about the band wearing black as breaking tradition. If you will look at all the old school pictures of the band, you will notice they used to *only* wear black. I see this black as the KU band getting back to their roots but adding the style of today into the mix.

Thirdly, WE ARE ALL JAYHAWKS and there is no mistaking how we feel about our school and each other. Be proud our band has nice, sharp new uniforms. And be proud that we can make black look better than Mizzou can. Suckers.

Chris: The uniforms are not bad but I think they have too much black in them. I would prefer the black to be replaced with the navy blue used on the football uniforms. Crimson and Blue appear to be an after thought in the current design.

Stephanie: I like the uniforms for the most part. I like how they mesh together the old uniform and the uniform we wear now. I think is a way to bring together the Marching Jayhawks and the New Marching Jayhawks. The thing that I do not like is just like what everyone else is saying, the infamous black pants. When performing at night we are going to disappear, especially the clarinet section, having a black instrument, black glove, black shako, black pants, black shoes. But on the opposite end the brass section will stand out, the silver or brass against the black. So if we end up changing the black pants I will accept it, why because I am Marching Jayhawk and proud to be one.

Brent: As a former drum major, I can’t stand the new look. Their first mistake was drawing a comittee from the School of Fine Arts. That is not the Band’s audience. Their audience is the fan in the stadium who has delayed going to the concession stand to see them perform.

I could live with the new look, and this can be salvaged, if they change the plume on the helmet to a white or crimson and blue, put white spats on the shoes and some form of stripe down the pant — accentuating the high step march step of a college band. KU bands made their trademark with a physical, driving style. As it is, the new uniform makes college band look like a run-of-the-mill drum and bugle corps. Which is fine if you are a run-of-the-mill drum and bugle corps.

This can be salvaged! Change the plume color, add spats and stripes, and you’ve solved the problem!

Jim Hudson has done a superior job in rebuilding this organization. The support for the new uniform shows that the fan bases support is there. I will support the organization no matter what.

Phil: First of all, this is a forum prompted by “Post your thoughts on the new uniforms.” So, NOBODY should be getting all offended and whiny when someone expresses an opintion contrary to their own in a SURVEY! Hello?

Second, I’ve read both positive and negative opinions, and that is exactly what they are — OPINIONS. As such, nobody is right and nobody is wrong. But the bottom line, and perhaps the voice of reason, is this: clearly the majority opinion is negative — to the tune of 80+% according to the article which reported that after only one day of releasing the new uniform design, 56 of the 69 opinions received were negative. Many more opinions have now been posted here, the majority of which still appear to be negative (and perhaps someone with time to kill could compile updated results from this forum and share with us). So, the bottom line is that the overwhelming majority opinion appears to be quite negative — a fact that one would think is certainly worthy of consideration among Mr. Hedden, Mr. Hudson, the uniform selection committee and the current marching band members. The perspective of this group should be respected because those involved are in the best position to make uniform decisions. At the same time, however, the “public” opinion should not be ignored — especially such a majority opinion. If you extrapolate the 80% from the smaller sample set above to a stadium with 40 or 50 thousand people in it, that’s a heck of a lot of people that find the uniforms unattractive. Sure, some people might change their minds once they see the uniforms coming down the hill or on the field, but 80%? Then again, there might be some who like the uniforms now, but later decide — you know, those uniforms really are ugly.

And I guess I just don’t buy the argument that the uniforms should only matter to those wearing them or those associated with the band. One, the uniforms certainly matter to the generous doners. And two, for whom do you work so hard and practice to perform? Certainly for yourself and your own enjoyment and satisfaction, yes — but if only for that then why not just march in an empty stadium in the dark with no uniforms at all? It seems to me you are also artists and PERFORMERS who perform for the public — and with regard to the new uniforms, the public is speaking… loudly and clearly.

E.: Awful!! Don’t like anything about them. Too much black. The bird on the back isn’t big enough. The KU on the arms won’t be seen. What a horrible decision!! Just like our horrible band. This group has taken a major nose dive in both talent AND size in recent years. What I used to consider to be the best band in the Big XII isn’t anywhere close to the top. That honor now belongs to the Cyclones. This program AND the new uniforms need some SERIOUS work!

Robert: The black is hideous. Why would you even consider black as one of our school colors. The school colors are Crimson & Blue. Our band is going to be the laughingstock of the Big 12.

Brian: What a waste of money. I wish the money hadn’t been raised for new uniforms so the band would have to keep wearing the old ones that at least looked good from the stadium. These uniforms are hideous and cheap looking. The color black has no place on the band uniforms and the styling looks cheap like a dime store Halloween costume and the Jayhawk on the front on a white background looks like an iron-on. These uniforms make me embarrassed.

Stephanie: Okay, I can see a lot of people are still bent out of shape of the STUPID black pants. A lot of you think that the pants look bad, well I have to tell you that you are wrong. The pictures here online are bad. If you want to see the uniform, go see it person. And you will see that the pants aren’t that bad. They are pants. You wear black pants to work. And being a Marching Jayhawk, weather you want to admit it or not, is a job. We are just wearing black pants to work.

Also, black pants and the blue will not look bad. Go visit the Blue Devils and Blue Knights Drum Corps website. They are basically wearing the same thing. Also there are 10 other drum corps that wear black in their uniforms. Or even for one of them black is their uniform. At it’s not that.

I am going to say it one more time THEY ARE PANTS!!! We will be Marching Jayhawks weather we wear blacks or pink pants with yellow pok-a-dots. We will be the same band.

Ray: I could not disgree more with Ms. Hamilton-Smith……black is not representative of any color in school history on any uniform. Putting black in the uniforms will not make the band more hip and trendy and desirable…..just as putting black on a team uniform makes better athletes want to attend.

I am not knowledgeable regarding the band’s recruiting problems in recent years, but the falloff in numbers is certainly noticeable and dramatic. Inserting a “hip” or fashionable color (which will change with the whims of fashion) that is NOT anything resembling a school color (at a time where we have too many shades of blue and red already) does not sit well with most alums.

I don’t care if we have 400 kids in the marching band…..if they do not look like Kansas Jayhawks sporting our long-time school colors (and we sacrifice our traditions to be slaves of current fashion)……support will lag for the band and its growth goals.

The black is a poorly thought-out choice.

Sean: Very sad. The “new” uniforms are just plain ugly. One of your goals is to recruit new band members… this uniform is not the way to do it. Please dump the black pants and black hat… you would atleast have a fighting chance. Our colors are crimson and blue, we are from “Kansas” and we are Jayhawks… These are the things that should stand out in the uniform and they do not. The “old” uniforms had all of those with class and style. When on the field, the white stripes in the pants and the letters on the shoulder overlays would stand out (make a line look incredible or bad…. depending if all were instep). Please re-consider your plans for the “new” uniform… it is not worth wasting $150,000.

Don: Yuk!!!!!

David: Having been in the KU band, being the President of the Band in 1970-71 and one of the drum majors I want to share my 2 cents worth.

First of all, the band has needed uniforms for so long, I really appreciate everyone that has helped make this a reality.

I know the reason behind the black, to make the body look smaller and have a tapered look. But that is not KU. I think the same thing could have been accomplished with a color similar to the football uniforms, keeping blue as the main solid color. College bands are not Drum and Bugle Corps, they are based on tradition. I think the uniform needs to have some highlighting striping down the pant, and we need to stay with white shoes. The ‘click’ you get with the feet in white shoes is very hard to achieve, but it is so cool to see. When the marching band has been very good, and that has happened more often than not, that is a very unique look to the KU band. I don’t want our band to look like everyone else. I want the band to look like the Marching Jayhawks.

Steve: Black pants, black gloves, etc.. It looks like a mime stole a KU jacket and a keystone cops hat.

Cyndy: The black pants and hat are horrible. Why are they using a silver Jayhawk emblem on the hat? Our colors are not black and silver. I am very disappointed in the new uniforms.

Jane: I’m the parent of a band alumnus. As my husband and I looked at the new prototype, some of the words that came to mind were: “drippy”, eewwwwh!!, and good grief! In comparison to the current uniforms, these are drab, dark and lack excitement. They look like a black suit with a Jayhawk t-shirt on top, to which someone applied a “Superman” cape. These look like they should be worn for funerals at Disneyland; not for half-time at an outstanding, front-running school. I know, this sounds very harsh, and I’m sorry to the designer. I’d like to see some more “traditional” elements and definitely NOT black.

Brent: I have seen these contributions to this page fall off, so I am hoping this is one of the final words on the matter.

Some of us, Marching Jayhawks in the 70s and 80s, don’t realize what the current band members face. A new uniform was badly needed, and not entirely for practical and aesthetic purposes.

It was easy to be a Marching Jayhawk where we were 280-strong, walking into any stadium knowing that we were better than anyone else every week playing Bob Foster and Jim Barnes’ arrangements that would knock your socks off. If we stayed a few years, we got some stipend money. And while the football was up and down, there was a public pride in the organization, and with it a certain level of respect and support from the athletic department.

It’s not as easy now. For 10 years, the athletic department- Bob Frederick and Rich Konzem to be specific — treated the organization, literally, like crap. Everything that an athletic department could conceivably do to undermine its primary student support group, it did. Stipend money isn’t there. Year after year, these band members sat and watched horrendous football, while the people they supported didn’t care whether they were there or not. We lost 100 bandsmen, and I can’t say that I blame them for leaving.

The current band members also must realize what has just happened. A university community came together, on relatively short notice, and quickly provided resources to outfit them. They’ve got to take comments on this board for what they are an indication that these people are passionate about who they are, the image they present, and who they represent. These people may not always express it correctly, but the band members need to understand that the pride we may have thought was gone, isn’t. It could be much worse if people could just as easily not care at all.

Do I like the new uniforms? No, I don’t. Do I like the corps-style marching? In three words: I despise it. But I love the organization, the excellence it aspires to, the tradition, the quality of people who came before me, and those who came after. The current members deserve everyone’s respect, because they’ve stuck when it wasn’t so easy to stick. Jim Hudson is doing a terrific job of rebuilding a tradition (I watched a rehearsal – black shoes or no black shoes, believe me, there will be no sloppy footwork), and I can’t wait to see them continue to grow.

For all these reasons, I don’t care if these bandsmen are wearing jeans and T-Shirts. When they hit that bass drum, and the KU Band stomps out of those chutes next fall, I’ll be the first guy in the stadium on my feet.

Brett (Simon): These are, quite simply, dreadful.

Bonnie: Please get rid of the black. The uniforms need to be bright colors.

Nick: I think they look terrible, it’s Kansas for god sake, I mean one thing at the UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS JAYHAWKS is that the colors are crimson and blue. Its not even suppose to be red its “crimson” so who in the world would have put one of the most colorful marching bands in the nation in to such crud.

Who ever thought this was good Idea I would like to hear better reasons than I have heard, Instead of, “looks good”, wow that took a lot of thought to put that in the debate.

From my point of view these are the worst things you could do to the band, and thats putting it in to my nicest way of saying how they look in my terms. If you are going to spend that kind of money again make some use of it. If there is any true Jayhawk lovers left on campus then you should know as well as I do that black does not mix with the pride of the CRIMSON and BLUE.

Nick: In a word…. Well, there is not a word to describe how terrible these new band uniforms look, I mean what is happening to our university color first place, the football team goes navy blue and now the band goes pure black, black pants, black gloves, black hat. People when did we turn in to a drum core in the year 1886? This campus spent $150,000 for a black mess, next time Ms. Hudson try doing something useful with the $150,000 dollars you made instead of getting such bad uniforms for the band, uniforms that never should have seen the light of day.

Josh:: I think they look awesome.

Jane: Why on earth did we go to black. I thought KU colors were crimson and blue. The uniforms are hot enough for the kids. Now you put them in something that absorbs the sun and makes it hotter. Way to go design staff.

Matthew: The new uniforms don’t look good at all! Black is not a school color – crimson and blue are. Not only that but black will cause the band members to be even hotter while marching and standing on the field. It looks like we stole the pants from the Mizzou band and added our own tops. I hope the band takes everyone’s comments seriously and puts a redesign in work before they spend $150,000 on a product that the majority of the fans do not like.

Gale: Yuk!!! The black is terrible. KU colors are Crimson and Blue. Black is okay as a trim color but not this. I don’t like it at all!!

Seth: This is in response to Tristan’s replies. I do agree that the black is a very formal look and it will spruce up the way the band looks. However, there is no reason that the hat should be black, and no reason at all that the plume should be black.

I am an alum of the music program and was happy to hear that they were getting a new marching band director when I was about to graduate. The previous one was past his prime and taking everybody down with him. I am glad that this director cares and is trying hard. But honestly, I think the plume is what represents the color, and all of the sudden we are black? What is this?? I turn the TV on and the football team wears navy now … then I turn over and the basketball team wears red uniforms … ? What happened to good ole fashion KU blue? It makes us stand out from the rest, and be unique in our ways. But now we have black everything. I will say the tops of the uniforms look very stylish and well done, and look very good with the black pants. I understand about them making everyone look skinnier and more presentable, but I have yet to hear a reason why the hats and plumes are black.

Thanks for your time. GO JAYHAWKS!

CC: I noticed that some people were a little angered by the black in the uniform. I think you should still be proud to have a good looking uniform such as that. My school colors are black and red. (This is the 10th year, time for new ones) But our old uniforms were all white. The only red was the sash and plume and from far away you can’t see the black. I think yours look nice. At least they aren’t a whole other color like my old uniform.

Catherine: So season one with the new uniforms is over. And it rocked.

First and foremost, I have not read one negative comment from a current Marching Jayhawk on this thread.

Second, I know black is not a school color, but it looked so awesome. Appearance has an effect on people … looking good made us a better band. I love KU blue as much as the next person but I also know that these uniforms were the right thing for the band. We are trying to prove that we are a top college band again, and to do that we need to be able to convince people (fans and prospective students) that we are not another old school marching band. We are almost as close to drum corps style as a college marching band gets. Let’s show that in our appearance! We have maintained every other KU band tradition: marching down the hill, hog-calling, run-in, pre-game. Don’t say that because of one small aspect of our overall package we forgot about tradition … trust me; our tradition is just as strong as it was in our duct tape assembled uniforms!

Mary: I think they look nice. They should look nice on the field next year. I’m in a high school marching band and if we got new uniforms and even if they were pink, we would be happy because they are new, all look the same and represent the band as a neat, organized, and formal organization.

Chuck: The Uniforms are very contemporary and superbly designed. They have everything that a Jayhawk would want. The old uniforms were disgusting and way out of date — an embarrassment to the University and the community. Kudos to Jim Hudson for the great design and the new Jayhawk Band!!! Change is good; a paradigm shift was indeed needed! The future is here now!!!

Herschel: The University has chosen “official colors” to showcase that theme as a consistent effort in all public relations and publications. Royal Blue and Crimson do not make black. Loyal Jayhawkers will support our Hawks, our school, our teams, our band, our University, but we don’t have to agree that the committee choosing predominantly black uniforms did a service to Jayhawk land.

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