The Cookeville High School Marching Band Booster Club wants to raise some $100,000 to purchase new uniforms.
Cookeville High School Band Director David Talbert said the current uniforms are about 25 years old. Talbert said the band has grown over the years and that the school does not have enough uniforms for every band member. Talbert said the band needs help from the community.
“The school system doesn’t really help us with any of this at all, and we are expected to raise it all ourselves,” Talbert said. “In the past, they have helped us a little bit at the end when we needed just a little bit more to finish things off, but they really expect us to come up with it ourselves.”
Talbert said the band is trying to purchase a total of 200 uniforms. Talbert said the booster club just started the fundraiser and is hopeful to have new uniforms by next fall.
“They are very excited about the idea of having some new uniforms,” Talbert said. “We have an army of band moms mostly, who have hemmed and altered and worked on these uniforms for years and years, and we are doing our best to just get everyone fitted into one right now. So the idea of having something new and fresh and not having to go through all that much trouble is very exciting to the students.”
Talbert said the marching band is an important piece to the school as it is a driver for school spirit. Talbert said new uniforms would be appreciated by more than just the current students.
“I think the alumni and fans will appreciate the new uniforms and new look,” Talbert said. “I think it will just instill a sense of pride in everyone, and you know, that pride will translate into a positive experience for everyone.”
Talbert said the new uniform design is military band-like. Talbert said he has always liked the military style, but with this uniform, he wants to make it more contemporary and have a little flair to it.
Talbert said people can donate online by visiting the marching band booster’s website.
