www.lifeepicurean.com/index.php?cat=11&feed=rss2 -
[Cached Version]
Published on: 4/16/2008
Last Visited: 10/22/2009
For the Louisville band, the performing of “My Old Kentucky Home†is not just a recent occurrence, as Dr. Greg Byrne, associate director of bands at the University of Louisville, explains.
“We have been playing the song each year at the Derby since 1936.†Before that, the practice of playing the song at the Kentucky Derby is rumored to have started only about 15 years prior, so the band’s role is as deeply entrenched in the Derby as is the song itself.
But unlike a football game or other sporting event, the playing of the song is not accompanied by choreographed moves or marching.
As Dr. Byrne goes on to say, “The song is really seen as reverent in this state.
Typically it is played in a standstill position and played as a chorale.†However, that is not to say that the ditty has been entirely absent from other band repertoires.
He adds, “There are marching band arrangements of this song available that can be used in parade settings and even halftime show settings.†Often times, the playing of the song at the end of sporting events is performed in conjunction with the school’s alma mater.
...
Dr. Byrne relates the tale: