The thought of Death Valley is synonymous with the sounds of the Golden Band from Tigerland. But there is a different band playing in the spring at basketball, volleyball and gymnastics meets. That’s Bengal Brass.
Members of this program get to attend games while doing what they love, playing music. They are the sports teams’ own hype band and their biggest fans. Students live a double life while maintaining academic responsibilities and playing at each event.
Bengal Brass is a full-time job for students, and they are paid $40 per event. Not only do they play school songs, but they keep their music folder fresh with tunes the fans want to hear. They also get the chance to travel all over for postseason tournaments.
“We’re there to influence the way fans are feeling,” member Will Mancuso said. “So if we’re not playing songs that make sense, how can we expect them to feel the way we want them to feel at that moment?”
Mancuso has been a part of Bengal Brass for the past three years and has travelled to Milwaukee, Greenville, Nashville and Albany.
“In the fourth quarter we play something that is upbeat and hype, that’s going to get the crowd up on their feet and cheering for the team and hopefully, help them win the game.”
Bengal Brass loves to interact with the crowd and takes requests from the fans. They always have “Still Fly” or “Right Above It” on stand by. Mike the Tiger has a little fun from time to time, hopping on the drum set to play. Even players come by and conduct the band after a play or a big win.
Mancuso recalls one game in particular, at home against Hawaii in 2023. The win advanced LSU women’s basketball to the Sweet 16, en route to their eventual national championship.
“Alexis Morris jumped on the podium to conduct the band,” Mancuso said. “That’s a cool moment for us and the players to connect and put on a show for the fans. It showed how badly the players want to win for the school and what kind of influence we can have on the love for the university’s teams.”
Bengal Brass is able to have those interactions because they are closer to the court. It is hard in the fall for Tiger Band because they can’t rush the field like everyone else and they have to stay in the stands and play from afar.
“I think Bengal brass has taught me not to take my experiences for granted,” Mancuso said. “I’ve loved the experiences it has brought me, and these memories are things that I will definitely hold on to throughout my college career.”
