Posted on Fri, Sep 17, 2010 : 11:09 a.m.
UMass band director dies during trip to Ann Arbor
By AnnArbor.com Staff
The director of the University of Massachusetts marching band died Thursday while traveling with the band to perform at Michigan Stadium on Saturday.
George N. Parks and the 350-member band were staying overnight in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, en route to Ann Arbor, where the UMass football team will play Michigan.
The Republican newspaper reported that Parks died following a band performance Thursday night.
The UMass Daily Collegian has reported the band will perform at Saturday's game, which is scheduled for a noon kickoff.
Comments
rreidannarbor
Sat, Sep 18, 2010 : 9:41 a.m.
I hope that before the UMASS band takes the field that arrangements have been made for a moment of silence to honor Mr. Parks. I can only imagine how dificult it will be for the band to perform under these circumstances. It would be a fitting tribute in front of 110,000 specatators later today. I hope most stay in their seats to give the band their full appreciation today!
michboy40
Sat, Sep 18, 2010 : 8:29 a.m.
Very sad...my thoughts and prayers are with the UMASS band and family today. I am certain that U of M and the fans will be very respectul and considerate.
Sarah
Sat, Sep 18, 2010 : 7:26 a.m.
Mr. Parks was a big part of UMass and of high school marching band in MA. Many of my friends and classmates would go to his camps each summer. I can't imagine how hard it will be for the UMass band to perform today and I wish them the best!
3 And Out
Fri, Sep 17, 2010 : 5 p.m.
geeze that is terrible... from one musician to another RIP Mr. Parks... I hope that they hold a moment of silence for him before the game....
Karen
Fri, Sep 17, 2010 : 11:51 a.m.
According to web reports, the UMass Band will be rehearsing Friday on Elbel Field, 2-4 pm. Tonight they'll perform at the Howell HS stadium, at 9 pm. I am guessing that the MMB will offer a substantial tribute, as well as their usual kindness.
Blue Marker
Fri, Sep 17, 2010 : 11:20 a.m.
Let's show some class and cheer for the UMass team when they take the field on Saturday instead of the usual boos. Such a sad story.
Indicat
Fri, Sep 17, 2010 : 10:27 a.m.
My prayers go out to Mr. Parks family and to the University of Massachusetts band. I hope Michigan fans give the band respect during this difficult time for the band members.
ThoseWhoStayUofM
Fri, Sep 17, 2010 : 10:27 a.m.
That is really sad! Does anyone know how he died? How old he was? I hope something is said at the stadium in his honor because that is truly unfortunate for the UMass band and those who support it.