Chad Smith Rocks the UMN Homecoming Performance
What began as a video message to School of Music Director Patrick Warfield transformed into a halftime performance that Gopher fans will never forget, as well as a new scholarship with a lasting impact on Minnesota youth. Chad Smith had a goal of inspiring the next generation of performers through the Chad Smith Foundation. He knew the perfect place to start was his parents’ alma mater. Together, the School of Music and Smith put on an incredible halftime show.
Smith’s homecoming festivities began on a brisk, bright morning at 9:45 AM. Hours before he rocked the field at halftime, Smith spent time with the 300-member UMN Pride of Minnesota Marching Band completing a soundcheck before the game. The marching band holds rehearsals hours before kickoff to make certain their performance is in perfect condition. On days with morning games, these rehearsals can happen before 6:00 AM, so a prime-time homecoming game under the Huntington Bank Stadium lights was appreciated by many.
More than 30 volunteers were required to push sound carts, Smith’s drum kit platform, and connect complicated cables before the halftime show began. Gathered from School of Music students, staff, friends, and family, these volunteers worked hard so Gopher fans could hear Smith’s epic performance. They had their own rehearsal on Friday evening before the game and rehearsed with the band on Saturday morning. With a limited performance time, the additional equipment needed to be set up within 90 seconds in order to ensure everything went smoothly.
Immediately after the sound check, Smith headed next door to the Graduate hotel for a special luncheon with individuals who had graciously supported the brand-new scholarship. School of Music students provided the soundtrack, with a small jazz combo performing during lunch. The SoM’s brand new Rock Band ensemble (SKWHIRL), directed by Del Lyren, was given the exclusive opportunity to perform some of the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ hits with Smith himself on the drum kit!
“For our students to have the chance to perform with Chad Smith was the opportunity of a lifetime.” Lyren remarked. “Things like this can be the catalyst for major change in a program, and in terms of the Rock Band, I can already see the change. Students are energized and excited about the possibilities. Plus, a successful performance with someone like Chad Smith shows the students that there are no boundaries to what they can accomplish. I am excited for the future!”
Students from the School of Rock program in Minneapolis were invited to the luncheon by the Chad Smith Foundation. The children and their families were able to spend extended time with Smith where he took photos with everyone and signed items ranging from shoes and fan signs to Gopher jerseys.
A few hours later, it was time to get ready for the big homecoming performance. The marching band began its usual gametime routine, and soon it was time for halftime. The volunteers connected the sound systems and platforms, and Chad Smith made his appearance under thousands of fans at Huntington Bank Stadium. The performance was well-received by fans, and the Gopher football team pulled out a win against Purdue, a perfect end to a busy Homecoming day.
The School of Music would like to thank Chad Smith, the Chad Smith Foundation, the individuals who purchased tickets to the luncheon, the marching band and its volunteers, and everyone who contributed to making this performance possible.
