Boise Junior College formed a pep band from 1932-1949 and then a marching band from 1950-1975. Due to waning funds and enthusiasm, marching band disbanded from 1976-1985. In 1986, Keith and Catherine Stein donated $250,000 to reestablish a marching band. An accompanying campaign raised $545,000 to support scholarships for band members.
The Keith Stein Blue Thunder Marching Band made its debut at the September 5, 1987 home football game, becoming a source of pride to both the university and community. The band marched onto the field in new uniforms consisting of short blue jackets with a tuxedo-type lace shirt and bright Bronco orange cummerbund. The color guard, flag corps, and Mane Line Dancers accompanied the team.
As the band marched into the 1990s, it sported a more traditional look similar to the marching band of the 1960s. By the 2000s, Blue Thunder updated its look with a set of silver sousaphones and trombones and new uniforms of navy overall pants under a streamlined navy and white jacket accented with a diagonal royal and white sash with orange piping.
In 2006, the Blue Thunder moved its offices and storage areas to the new Keith and Catherine Stein Band Hall. Built in conjunction with the Caven-Williams Sports Complex, the facility provides the band with climate-controlled rehearsal, storage, changing, and office space. The band’s performance at the 2007 Fiesta Bowl crowned the 2006 season. Exposure from that game and new facilities boosted recruitment. Blue Thunder reached record numbers for the 2007 season. Due to its quality of sound, Blue Thunder was asked to perform for President Obama when he visited Boise in January 2015.
Directors
David A. Wells, 1987-2008
Nathan Stark, 2009
Eric Smedley, 2010-2011
Joe Tornello, 2011-
Written by Rachel Taylor, Summer 2019 intern