Post-event follow-up: Watch a video of the Feb. 14 event.

Discover the history and take an inside look at the Hawkeye Marching Band with the band’s 13th director, Dr. Eric W. Bush, who has led the band since 2018. Founded in 1881, the 265-member Hawkeye Marching Band is the sound of Kinnick Stadium and the heartbeat of our university. We present pregame and halftime shows at all Iowa home football games, and at one or two away games each season. As the most visible ensemble in the School of Music and the largest student organization on campus, we bring all Hawkeyes together to Fight for Iowa. Comprised of students from nearly every major within the university, this time-honored organization combines quality musicianship, Hawkeye spirit, pride, and dedication to create their nationally renowned gridiron excitement. 

Dr. Eric W. Bush is associate director of bands and director of the Hawkeye Marching Band in the School of Music. He leads the athletic band program, conducts the Iowa Concert Band, and teaches, including marching band techniques and band arranging. Under his direction, the Hawkeye Marching Band has earned national recognition for innovative show design, dynamic collaborations, and exponential growth in engagement among students, alumni, and the Hawkeye community. He holds degrees from Central Michigan University, University of Montana, and University of Iowa. Prior to his appointment at Iowa, he held faculty appointments at Suffolk County Community College, Cornell College, and Pennsylvania State University. He resides in Iowa City with his wife Alex and their son, Brecken.