As the echoes of “Carmen Ohio” fade into spring and anticipation for football season rises, The Ohio State University Marching Band is charging into the 2025 season with fresh leadership and a call to action. With registration for the upcoming season officially open, the band is already building momentum following the highly celebrated selection of its 2025 drum majors: Joshua Ford and Brian Speckman.
Announced on April 26 after a spirited tryout at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, Ford and Speckman were chosen from a pool of five elite candidates, all part of the band’s prestigious D-Row training squad. Ford, a rising fourth-year aviation major from Gahanna, Ohio, was named the 66th drum major in the program’s proud history. Speckman, an accounting major from St. Marys, Ohio, earned the title of assistant drum major.
The tryout featured a gauntlet of challenging routines, including the iconic ramp entrance — complete with high struts, a dramatic backbend, and a goal-post toss — along with personalized twirling performances and aerial toss sequences. Judged by former drum majors, band staff, and accompanied by members of the Athletic and 2024 Marching Bands, the audition was a showcase of discipline, flair, and Ohio State pride.
Ford, whose passion for the band dates back over seven years, expressed his deep connection to the program. “Being able to be a part of this program for so long and to look up to the head drum major for years — it’s great seeing that hard work pays off,” he said. “Knowing that I will be able to give back to this organization for years to come is very rewarding.”
His selection carries even more meaning as it continues a family tradition: Ford’s uncle, Brian Berendts, served as Ohio State’s drum major in 1992–93.
Speckman, meanwhile, attributes his success to relentless preparation and the support of loved ones. “I went out every day at the same time and practiced like every day was tryouts,” he said. “My mom surprised me by bringing a bunch of extended family to the tryouts — that meant so much to me.”
The excitement doesn’t stop at leadership. On May 6, the Marching Band opened registration for the 2025 season, calling on aspiring band members to sign up and prepare for what promises to be a milestone year. The season’s first game is a high-stakes home showdown against Texas — a rare, top-five-ranked clash that will spotlight both the football team and the renowned TBDBITL (The Best Damn Band in the Land).
As the drum majors begin leading rehearsals and new recruits gear up for auditions, Ohio State’s marching tradition remains as strong and inspiring as ever. The blend of legacy, excellence, and community spirit is setting the stage for a truly unforgettable 2025 season.
For more information on joining the band, visit tbdbitl.osu.edu or follow the band on social media.
