In 2024, Eastern University celebrated the inaugural season of their new marching band. Under the direction of Dr. Kate Smuker, the marching band thrived and managed to double in size for 2025. Due to family reasons, Smuker had to step down from her position and leave Eastern. The marching band is now under the direction of Professor Charles “Chuck” Hallahan.
Hallahan has been a professional musician and educator in the Greater Philadelphia area for the past 20 years. He has been involved with multiple different types of athletic bands over the years, including pep and marching bands. Most recently, he was director for the athletic band at Wilkes University. At the time, Wilkes was in a similar position to the Eastern University: a startup band at a division 3 school with limited resources. At Wilkes, Professor Hallahan focused on their DCI marching style and their presentation on the field.
Faculty members in the music department knew Hallahan previous to his involvement at Eastern. Their remarks about the department helped influence Hallahan’s decision to work at Eastern University. After arriving he commented on the extremely positive atmosphere in the marching band. Hallahan mentioned that “everyone has such a good head on their shoulders.” He loved the high moral, team effort and strong community.
After starting rehearsals and preparing for their first game, Hallahan has a plan in place to help the band improve and grow. Musicality is one of the most important aspects of a band, and Hallahan has decided to make it a primary concern of his because, “it conveys the emotions that we’re trying to present.” Hallahan plans to focus this year on the musical aspect of the marching band as well as adding some more marching on the field.
The morale of the marching band continues to stay high as they make improvements and many students enjoy the leadership Hallahan is providing. “I really like how he’s created student initiative, where students are able to actually put in the effort and make the band that they want, while he oversees” said Cathleen Saunders, the marching band’s Drum Major. Hallahan claims he is most looking forward to the positive attitude of the band continuing and their presentation improving each time they perform. “I believe this positivity snowball will continue throughout the season” said Hallahan.
The band is excited to continue their first season under Hallahan. Hallahan would like to encourage any interested Eastern students to join the band. “It is a great time to get involved because it is still brand new and in the developing phase,” Hallahan said.