Field of Dreams

U-M’s iconic Elbel Field, home to U-M’s iconic Michigan Marching Band (MMB) has moved! To be clear, the field hasn’t really moved, but the band has taken its gear to a new location within marching distance of its former home. Anyone looking to catch an outdoor practice can find the MMB at the site once owned by Fingerle Lumber, across Hill Street and north of the original Elbel. And while the field may have changed, the dream remains the same. These photos come courtesy of Michigan Marching Band Photography.

Over the rainbow

Features at Elbel redux include a secondary, partial practice field with an endzone, a sound amplification system, audio-visual technology, overhead cameras, a video board, a goal post, Wi-Fi, and more. When plans were announced in 2023, MMB director John Pasquale told the University Record he was confident “this state-of-the-art classroom space with integrated technology will set a new standard in pageantry arts instruction.”
Strike a pose

“The band not only contributes to the unparalleled atmosphere of our athletic events, but inspires pride across our Michigan community,” David Gier told the University Record in 2023. Gier is the dean and Paul C. Boylan Collegiate Professor of Music at U-M’s School of Music, Theatre & Dance.
What’s in a name?

MMB director John Pasquale says it was important to the band community that the new site retain its name in honor of composer Louis Elbel, a U-M alum who wrote the University’s legendary fight song, “The Victors,” as a student in 1898. “It’s an iconic part of the institution,” Pasquale says.
Band on the run

The Elbel Field project is one piece of a transformative plan to expand affordable student housing options on Central Campus. The original site soon will be home to a 2,300-bed residence hall and dining facility.
The beat goes on

Elbel — old and new — is the most visible classroom on the campus at U-M.
A-Maizing

Generations of Ann Arborites and their children have long enjoyed band rehearsal — possibly the best free entertainment in Washtenaw County.
Tune with a view

Like its predecessor, the revamped Elbel Field features field lighting, an instructional tower, fencing, and bleachers.
Matching set

The main field is sized and oriented in a north-south position to match the game field at Michigan Stadium.
Stay hydrated

There are just a few last-minute touches to be completed: installation of permanent water filling stations, MWireless access points, and the green space to the left of the field.

Comments

Jerry Gonser - 1956 & 1962

I remember when Elbel Field was named Wines Field. As high school football player I played several games on that field against University High School. I also ran track on the Wines Field Track. Wines was the home football field of U High & Ann Arbor High (now Pioneer High). I have many fond memories of Wines (Elbel) Field.

Reply
John Haeussler - 1989; 1990

I met my wife playing softball at Ebel Field. This new space looks so much better for the band than the parking lot it practiced on years ago. (I played a lot of roller hockey at that lot, too.) Thank you for the photos and info.

Reply
Jo Shaw - 1950

I grew up one block from Wines (Elbel) Field. I ice skated there in the winter and went to the summer recreation program. While in High School I marched there with the AAHS band. When I got to Uof M they wouldn’t let girls be in the marching band, but I marched with it to the stadium on football Saturdays. I continued this tradition with my children and grandson whenever we came to a game. Fingerle Lumber Co. was 1/2 block from my home. What wonderful memories! Jo Lyons Shaw

Reply
Ron Welf - 1967

I still recall spending many hours working on formations at then Wines field. George Cavander was relentless. And when we all (101 of us as I recall) packed into the small field house to practice, also relentless was “The Old Man,” our affectionate moniker for Dr. Revelli. During those early season rehearsals, we newbies felt pretty intimidated, until we finally figured out it wasn’t about being mean, but to instill in us a sense of excellence and precision. It worked! We’d put on quite a show. And I can recall the excitement of marching to the stadium on game days (I can still even play some of those great drum cadences) and pouring out of the tunnel at pre-game. Now that’s a thrill, especially that first time. Glad the band has nice new facilities to make an even more memorable experience.

Reply

Menu

Field of Dreams

Over the rainbow

Strike a pose

What’s in a name?

Band on the run

The beat goes on

A-Maizing

Tune with a view

Matching set

Stay hydrated

Comments

Jerry Gonser - 1956 & 1962

John Haeussler - 1989; 1990

Jo Shaw - 1950

Ron Welf - 1967

Leave a comment: Cancel reply