The moment fans step into Tex Turner Arena for a Railsplitter basketball game, the unmistakable energy of the LMU Pep Band sets the stage. From rock anthems to crowd-favorite singalongs, the band has become an integral part of the game-day experience, fueling excitement and lifting school spirit.
Under the direction of Dr. Ben Bruflat, assistant professor of music, the ensemble has grown both in size and impact. Over the past four years, what started as a modest group of eight musicians has expanded to 22 dedicated performers. With each game, they bring music, enthusiasm, and tradition to LMU Athletics.
"Nothing creates the atmosphere of a college game quite like a live band," Bruflat said. "The energy, the sound, and the passion of the players and the crowd all come together. We see ourselves as more than just musicians—we set the vibe of the entire arena, keeping the momentum high and supporting our athletes however we can."
The LMU Pep Band performs at every home basketball game, playing during breaks, timeouts, and throughout the action. Their repertoire is carefully crafted to engage the crowd and boost the team, blending classic rock staples like Iron Man and Bad Romance with interactive crowd favorites such as Sweet Caroline. The band even takes song requests from students and fans after games.
"It's great because we get to contribute to the atmosphere and fit with the whole experience of any athletic activity, and we're doing so using the talent we've each cultivated over time," said Caleb Anderson, a graduate student and trombone player.
Olivia Lawrence, a junior and flute player added: "Personally, my favorite part of being in the Pep Band is that I've made multiple friends who feel like home, and with those friends, we get to proudly show off our school together. There's never a dull moment; every basketball game we attend and every rehearsal we have are always full of laughter and fun!"
One of the band’s most cherished traditions is playing All I Do Is Win at the conclusion of every Railsplitter victory, a song that has become a staple of post-game celebrations. Another favorite moment for the band comes when an opposing player fouls out, cueing the band and fans to break into the classic Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye.
While the pep band’s presence is most visible during basketball season, its impact extends beyond the games. The band welcomes all LMU students, faculty, and even community members who play an instrument and can read music. The program also offers participation scholarships, making it an accessible opportunity for students interested in continuing their musical journey.
"I think a lot of people don’t realize they can be a part of the band, even if they’re not music majors," Bruflat said. "We have student-athletes, graduate students, and people from different academic disciplines who just love playing music and being involved in school spirit."
"The LMU Pep Band transforms the atmosphere at our athletic events, filling every moment with energy, passion, and school pride," said LMU President Jason McConnell, DBA. "This talented group of students, faculty, and staff brings our community together in a way that inspires and unites us all. Their enthusiasm and commitment to excellence are a shining example of what makes LMU so special, and we are deeply grateful for the role they play in enhancing the spirit of our university."
The band has also taken steps to expand its community outreach, inviting local high school students to join them on game days. This initiative has already yielded success, with at least one participant enrolling at LMU to join the music program.
"That was an awesome experience," Bruflat said. "Getting young musicians to see what we do firsthand is a great way to inspire the next generation and grow our program."
While the band’s numbers fluctuate depending on class schedules and other commitments, Bruflat hopes to continue expanding the program. With an eye toward the future, he envisions adding new pieces to the repertoire and potentially performing at other LMU sporting events.
Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in liberal arts and professional studies. The main campus is in Harrogate, Tennessee. For more information about the undergraduate and graduate programs available at LMU, contact the Office of Admissions at 423-869-6280 or email at admissions@LMUnet.edu.
