re: Their band was louder, has a xylophone section and marching ballerinas

Irish, you sound like a very disgruntled Roy fan. No matter who is the tiger band director, it would be poor leadership in your eyes (unless it was Linda)

Here is my take. LSU needed new leadership in tiger band for the same reason it needs a new coach. People (fans) are getting tired of the same old stuff. If you dont see LSU was in a rut with show variety then you were a "sunshine pumper" Face it your boy is gone.

Now for numbers. Yes, I agree that the numbers are down. That is always the case when you replace a person who has been there for quite a few years. A lot of kids chose not to come back because of Roy. That was going to happen. However, I have several former students who are marching this year, and they seem to enjoy being there. Even the ones who were in band with Roy. I honestly think the band is headed in the right direction. Give it some time and the numbers will get back to where they need to be.

Seriously, Irish, You really need to find something to get happy about. You sound miserable. (and whiny)