During the halftime show, the Ohio State Marching Band plays “Pirates of the Shoe” for the second time.

The Ohio State University Marching Band (OSUMB), known as The Best Damn Band in the Land (TBDBITL), is no stranger to delivering unforgettable halftime shows. Over the years, TBDBITL has made a name for itself not only for its unmatched precision in marching but also for its creative and thematic shows that captivate the crowd. One of the band’s most iconic performances returned for its second iteration during a recent Ohio State football game, marking a thrilling continuation of a show that blends musical brilliance with high-stakes drama and a sense of adventure. The “Pirates of the ‘Shoe” show, which first debuted in 2023, made a triumphant return for the 2024 season in front of a raucous crowd at Ohio Stadium, also known as The Horseshoe.

The concept of the show is a unique blend of pirate lore, classic film scores, and OSU football tradition, creating a halftime experience that resonates deeply with fans and students alike. With its swashbuckling arrangements, daring formations, and exuberant performance, the “Pirates of the ‘Shoe” show brings to life a musical narrative filled with suspense, high-seas adventure, and of course, Ohio State pride.

In this article, we will dive deep into the magic of TBDBITL’s “Pirates of the ‘Shoe” halftime performance, exploring its origins, the musical selections, and the impact it has had on fans, all while highlighting how the Ohio State Marching Band continues to set the standard for collegiate halftime entertainment.

The Inspiration Behind “Pirates of the ‘Shoe”

The “Pirates of the ‘Shoe” halftime show draws its inspiration from the swashbuckling world of pirates, as well as classic pirate-themed movie scores. For TBDBITL, the idea was to take the audience on a musical journey to the high seas, all while staying true to the traditions of Ohio State football and the signature style of the Ohio State Marching Band.

The show is a playful and high-energy reimagining of the legendary pirate tales that have captured the imagination of generations. It ties in perfectly with the energy of Ohio Stadium, where Buckeyes fans are known for their unwavering support and enthusiasm. The idea to incorporate the pirate theme came after the success of previous thematic performances such as “The Music of Star Wars,” “The Best Damn Band in the Land Goes to the Movies,” and “The Best Damn Band in the Land Celebrates the Beatles.”

With “Pirates of the ‘Shoe,” OSUMB aimed to create a performance that combined the universal appeal of pirate stories with the electric atmosphere of college football. The show would not only highlight classic pirate music but also integrate dramatic elements, including sweeping formations and stunning visual displays, to make the theme come to life.

Musical Selections: A Soundtrack for the High Seas

The musical selections for “Pirates of the ‘Shoe” are anchored by iconic scores from popular pirate movies and TV shows, as well as some of the most exciting and adventurous music ever composed. The band used the opportunity to showcase its ability to perform a wide range of styles, from bold brass fanfares to intricate woodwind passages, all while maintaining its signature precision and coordination.

1. The Pirates of the Caribbean Theme – Klaus Badelt

The opening of the “Pirates of the ‘Shoe” halftime show is a fan favorite and one of the most thrilling musical introductions in recent years: The “Pirates of the Caribbean” theme by Klaus Badelt. With its energetic rhythm, grandiose orchestration, and unmistakable melody, this theme is instantly recognizable to fans of the film franchise.

As the band kicks off the show with this cinematic classic, the mood is set. The crowd is immediately transported to the high seas, with visions of swashbuckling pirates, treasure maps, and fierce battles for glory. TBDBITL’s arrangement of this piece stays true to the original film score but incorporates the unique Ohio State flavor—full of brass fanfare and dynamic percussion. The band’s precise drill formations, which resemble the movement of ships or waves on the ocean, enhance the narrative of the music, as if the pirates are making their way toward adventure.

The powerful brass section, led by the trumpet and trombone players, takes center stage in this opening sequence, with their bold fanfares reverberating through the stadium. Meanwhile, the woodwinds and percussion create a sense of excitement, building anticipation for the pirate voyage that’s about to unfold.

2. The Black Pearl Theme – Klaus Badelt

Following the “Pirates of the Caribbean” theme, the band transitions into another classic piece from the film series: The “Black Pearl Theme.” This piece is darker and more mysterious, reflecting the dangers of the pirate world, and it allows the band to showcase its ability to shift from a fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping melody to a more somber and dramatic tone.

The music’s brooding quality mirrors the fearsome Black Pearl ship itself, which serves as the symbol of pirate adventure in the film series. The band’s brass section once again takes the lead, with the low brass adding a sense of depth and mystery. Meanwhile, the percussion section delivers the beat, mimicking the sound of waves crashing against the ship’s hull. The woodwinds add their own unique color, creating a swirling atmosphere of excitement and danger. On the field, TBDBITL executes dynamic drill formations that resemble the rolling motion of the ocean or the ships maneuvering in battle.

The use of lighting and visuals further enhances the narrative, with the darkened stadium and dramatic spotlighting elevating the intensity of the moment.

3. “Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life for Me)” – From Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean

The band’s next selection is a fun and upbeat rendition of the classic Disney pirate anthem, “Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life for Me),” a song first introduced in the Disneyland theme park’s iconic Pirates of the Caribbean attraction. This tune is light-hearted and whimsical, providing a contrast to the darker themes explored earlier in the show. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings a sense of joviality and humor to the performance, reminding everyone that, despite the dangers, pirates are known for their carefree attitude and adventurous spirit.

The band’s brass section plays this tune with exuberance, while the woodwinds add a playful, bouncy quality to the melody. TBDBITL’s drill formations also take on a more playful aspect, as the band members form shapes reminiscent of pirate ships, treasure chests, and swaying palm trees. The performance is a fun and energetic moment that adds levity to the show, with the band’s enthusiasm fueling the infectious nature of the music.

4. The Sea Hawk Theme – Erich Wolfgang Korngold

Another standout selection is the “Sea Hawk Theme” by Erich Wolfgang Korngold. This piece, originally composed for the 1940 film The Sea Hawk, evokes the dramatic and heroic side of the pirate world, with soaring brass lines and sweeping strings. The music’s bold and triumphant melody captures the essence of a pirate’s life, filled with bravery, adventure, and the pursuit of treasure.

The band’s brass section plays this piece with precision and power, evoking images of pirate ships charging into battle. The woodwinds provide a rich texture, complementing the grandiose nature of the music. This piece allows the band to highlight its technical proficiency while simultaneously capturing the audience’s imagination. In the visual aspect of the performance, the formations reflect the grandeur of a pirate ship embarking on an epic journey, with sweeping curves and bold lines that mirror the majestic motion of the high seas.

The Visuals: Marching Formations and Pirate Theatrics

The Ohio State Marching Band is known for its impeccable visual display, and “Pirates of the ‘Shoe” was no exception. One of the standout elements of the performance is the use of dynamic and detailed formations on the field. As always, TBDBITL executes perfectly synchronized movements, transforming the field into a canvas that brings the music to life.

1. The Pirate Ship Formation

At one point during the show, the band forms a giant pirate ship on the field, complete with sails, a prow, and an imposing figurehead. This formation is a fan favorite, as the intricate details and precision required to execute such a complex shape are nothing short of impressive. The ship’s visual impact is made even more striking by the sound of the marching band’s music, which builds in intensity as the ship sails through the stormy seas.

2. The Treasure Hunt Formation

Another highlight is the “treasure hunt” formation, where the band members form a treasure map and, with precise coordination, “search” for buried treasure on the field. This lighthearted segment brings a sense of fun and humor to the performance, and it’s a great example of how TBDBITL merges musicality with visual storytelling. The treasure hunt formation is accompanied by playful, piratical gestures from the band members, adding an extra layer of theatricality to the show.

3. The Final Battle Formation

The grand finale of the performance sees the band form a dramatic “final battle” formation, with two opposing ships facing off across the field. The powerful music that accompanies this segment is punctuated by dramatic pauses and crescendos, adding to the sense of anticipation and excitement. As the music reaches its peak, the ships clash, and the formation evolves to signify the resolution of the battle. This visual crescendo mirrors the intensity of the music, creating a thrilling conclusion to an unforgettable