It’s been 17 years since Master Sgt. Chris McFarlane played his bassoon at the University, but now he’s back playing in The President’s Own United States Marine Band.
The Marine Band held a concert Thursday in the reopened Union Theater in front of a sold-out house.
McFarlane graduated in 1993 with a master’s degree in music and played in the LSU Symphony Orchestra and Baton Rouge Symphony. After graduating, he auditioned for the opening bassoon spot in the Marine Band and was selected.
He went to the recruiting office and enlisted, and has since played across the country, including in Arlington Cemetery and for the president.
McFarlane said the band would play orchestras regularly during President George W. Bush’s administration.
Among musicians from performing arts schools like The Juilliard School, McFarlane said he holds his own coming from the University’s School of Music.
“There’s a surprising range. We have people from all over,” McFarlane said.
McFarlane said he reminisced on the bus ride into Baton Rouge and when he saw his old apartment complex.
“It was a good place to be a student,” McFarlane said. “I like the faculty that was here.”
Dawn Arevalo, assistant to the dean for personnel and production in the College of Music and Dramatic Arts, said former Director of Bands Frank Wickes has been trying to get the Marine Band to come to the University for years.
“It’s truly amazing because this band is loved the world over,” Arevalo said.
Arevalo said all of the tickets were handed out as of last Friday. Per Marine Band policy, any extra seats available before the show starts are given out for free.
 Although the Marine Band is self-sufficient and brings its own equipment, Arevalo said they require more security than the Union Theater’s usual productions.
“The Marine Band is described to me as basically an extension of the White House, so their security is very high,” Arevalo said.
The Marine Band played 10 pieces, ranging from marches to suites. It played the march “Semper Fidelis,” composed by former Marine Band director John Philip Sousa.
Maj. Jason Fettig, assistant director of the Marine Band, said the band tries to please everyone.
“Some come to hear symphonic repertoire. Some are former Marines,” Fettig said. “Some come to wave the flag.”
Fettig said the band plays about 300 times a year, ranging from performances by the full ensemble to a soloist. They play traditional American tunes, but have a repertoire to play for any guests who come to the White House.
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Contact Catherine Threlkeld at [email protected]