Portales, NM – January 7, 2024 – The band Metallica challenged marching bands at all levels to craft the most exciting, unique, and impressive performances of Metallica's music. After months of fan voting and a final selection by Metallica, The Eastern New Mexico University Greyhound Sound was awarded the College (Divisions 2 and 3) winner for the "For Whom The Band Tolls" marching band competition.
"We are so excited and proud to win Metallica's "For Whom The Band Tolls" Marching Band Competition. The entire process was a labor of love and started with music from this iconic band. Congratulations to all the participating ensembles," said Dustin Seifert, ENMU Director of Bands. "We are grateful that Metallica chose to feature the outstanding work that is accomplished by our amazing students."
"This work happens all over the United States and involves some of the nation's most outstanding and dedicated students," continued Seifert. "We are pleased that this work has been recognized in what we chose to view as a service-learning opportunity to benefit the ensemble we love, your Greyhound Sound. This is a great way to help kick off ENMU's 90th Birthday celebration. Be Proud, Greyhounds!"
The ENMU Greyhound Sound will receive one customized package of musical equipment of the school's choosing with a value totaling $40,000.
"I am so proud of our Greyhound Sound! They rocked the field, and it paid off," said James Johnston ENMU Chancellor. "What great representatives of Eastern New Mexico University."
This past year, Metallica announced the inaugural marching band competition for universities and high schools, titled "For Whom the Band Tolls," with over $180,000 in prizes to be awarded. Auburn University took home the top prize for Division 1, as well as the fan favorite award; ENMU took the Division 2 and 3 college prizes, and several high schools were awarded prizes in their respective divisions.
The winners were announced tonight on the Championship Drive: Countdown to Kickoff show on ESPN and Metallica.com. For a full listing of winners, visit https://www.metallica.com/news/2024-01-07-for-whom-the-band-tolls-and-the-winners-are.html.
For more information on the ENMU Greyhound Sound, visit enmu.edu/GreyhoundSound.
