SPIRIT ON STAGE RETURNS TO THE MOORES OPERA HOUSE
MUSIC, LEGACY AND RESILIENCE WITH THE SPIRIT OF HOUSTON
In the mid-70s, the University of Houston first entered the spotlight of a young boy from Oklahoma, captivated by its big red band playing on the field at the Cotton Bowl. Little did he know that fate would lead him on a journey intertwined with the University of Houston's rich musical legacy. Through chance encounters, the revelation of past connections, and the guidance of influential figures like Eddie Green, a foundation would be laid for his musical journey, one that would lead him to become the Director of Bands at the very institution that had left an indelible mark on his heart.
“Up until the 1970s, the only prominent big red band I knew of was the University of Oklahoma, as my entire family was alumni. My late grandfather held a special fondness for the Cotton Bowl, regardless of the teams involved, and so we always paid attention to the games in his honor. It's worth noting that during that time, Bill Moffit was leading the University of Houston band, and his name was prominently displayed on almost all band charts we used in the '70s," said Director of Bands David Bertman.
As fate would have it, he [Bertman] ended up following in the footsteps of his family and attended the University of Oklahoma. Unbeknownst to him at the time, he would later discover that the innovative displays they performed in the marching band were the brainchild of Bill Moffit at the University of Houston.
"In 1987, I had the life-altering experience of hearing the University of Houston wind ensemble under the direction of Eddie Green, a performance that transcended anything I had ever witnessed from a band. At that very moment, I knew that I wanted to study under Mr. Green,” said Bertman.
While Bertman pursued his master’s degree at the University of North Texas and taught band at Haltom High School, he studied on the side with Eddie Green in Houston.
“While studying at the University of North Texas, every music education or band class I attended was rife with mentions of the University of Houston and Eddie Green. As a student of Mr. Green, I often found myself being questioned about his views, which fueled my desire to be associated with the University of Houston. Consequently, I resolved to pursue my master's degree there. After graduating, I continued teaching high school in Fort Worth, a profession I loved and thought I would pursue indefinitely," Bertman explained.
Cougar Marching Band on their journey to the Cotton Bowl. Featuring Bill Moffitt's son, Rick Moffit.
Cougar Marching Band on their journey to the Cotton Bowl. Featuring Bill Moffitt's son, Rick Moffit.
However, in 1999, Eddie Green retired from the University of Houston and Bertman stepped into the position of director of marching bands.
David Bertman conucting the Cougar band, 2007
David Bertman conucting the Cougar band, 2007
From the outset, Bertman possessed insight into the band's untapped potential and the significance of forging a strong identity that would infuse games with energy and foster a sense of camaraderie across the entire campus and the city of Houston. It was during this transformative moment that the Spirit of Houston was conceived, a force that would forever alter the atmosphere of university events. Under Bertman's leadership, the Spirit of Houston not only encompassed the band but also embraced other essential elements of school spirit. The marching band, UH Cheer, Cougar Dolls, and the cherished mascots Shasta and Sasha were seamlessly woven together, forming a cohesive alliance that magnified the collective enthusiasm at every event.
Sprit on Stage, 2007
Spirit on Stage, 2007
In 2018 Bertman sought the expertise of alumnus Cameron Kubos to refine the Spirit of Houston's field formations. "There's nothing more gratifying for a teacher than to see a former student not just pick up where you left off, but take it to places you couldn’t imagine,” said Bertman.
Cameron Kubos in the Cougar band, 2007
Cameron Kubos in the Cougar band, 2007
One of Kubos’ earliest memories of seeing the Spirit of Houston was when he watched "Spirit on Stage," a show inspired by the Tony Award-winning Broadway production "BLAST!"
“BLAST!” featured University of Houston alumni and current students, presenting marching band and drum corps performances on a theatrical stage. Kubos, a high school band student at the time, found inspiration in a VHS recording of "BLAST!" as it offered a fresh and unique perspective on the art form.
Taking cues from "BLAST!," Bertman envisioned showcasing the Spirit of Houston in a similar manner. He always aspired to hold an indoor concert in the Moores Opera House and now had a clear vision of how to bring it to life. To develop "Spirit on Stage," they collaborated with University of Houston students involved in "BLAST!" to contribute to the show's design.
Spirit on Stage, 2004
Spirit on Stage, 2004
"Spirit on Stage" quickly became a powerful concert drawing in prospective students, alumni, and the Houston community, including Kubos himself. Throughout his undergraduate years, the show maintained its momentum.
David Bertman dressed as the UH Mascot, Sasha, 2005
David Bertman dressed as the UH Mascot, Sasha, 2005
In 2018, Kubos returned to the University of Houston as the Director of the Spirit of Houston and Bertman transitioned to becoming the Director of Bands. As the years progressed, the Spirit of Houston's growth, paved the way for the return of “Spirit on Stage.”
Kubos leading the Cougar Marching band to victory in rain or shine!
Kubos leading the Cougar Marching band to victory in rain or shine!
“Unlike the typical game experience, where spectators are often unable to see the students' faces, this performance in the Moores Opera House presents a different sound and look. The carefully crafted lighting and stage environment allows for a mesmerizing showcase. In this entirely different ambiance, the band members will forego their hats, giving the audience an unobstructed view of their expressions, while the dancers and cheerleaders take center stage, revealing the intricacies and techniques that make their performances so awe-inspiring,” says Bertman.
Kubos shares his excitement about the Moores Opera House, describing it as a beautiful space that, despite its cozy size, can accommodate a multitude of people. “Its design ensures that even from the farthest reaches of the back row under the balcony, the audience can still enjoy an intimate view of the performers' faces—a truly unparalleled experience.”
As "Spirit on Stage" readies for its triumphant return on August 26th at 7:30 pm in the Moores Opera House, it promises to be an event that showcases the Spirit of Houston’s immense talent and artistry in a way that transcends the typical game-day experience, leaving the audience with a profound appreciation for the dedication and skill that go into each performance.
In many ways, the revival of “Spirit on Stage” stands as a powerful tribute to the University of Houston's enduring musical legacy. As the University of Houston makes its momentous entry into the Big 12, “Spirit on Stage” emerges as a symbol of the spirit, history, heart and artistic innovation on campus. The convergence of past influences and present aspirations has paved the way for this grand return. Just as a young boy's fascination with the big red band at the Cotton Bowl led to an extraordinary musical odyssey, the upcoming performance promises to carry forward the torch of inspiration, uniting generations and leaving a mark.
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