Fort Dale Academy is looking to put some musical pep into the step of Eagle football fans this fall.

The school is in the process of putting together a small band to perform at football games, and they are looking for musicians – particularly percussionists and brass – who want to join the fledgling group.

&uot;We have talked about forming a band for years, and we finally decided to go for it the latter part of April. We are getting off to a late start, but we hope it will catch on,&uot; Liz Mullins, sponsor of the new pep band, said.

Mullins, who performed in a band during her own high school years, hopes to bring some of that same fun, energy and excitement to FDA’s games.

&uot;Anyone who has ever performed in a high school band knows what a great experience it can be, and we want that opportunity for the students at FDA,&uot; she said.

The FDA Pep Band is open to both students and their parents.

&uot;We are also looking for adults who have played instruments, who would be willing to sit in the stands, and help rally the crowds as part of the band,&uot; Mullins explained.

A band director out of Prattville, Kevin McDaniels, is assisting Mullins in jump-starting the band program at the school.

&uot;Kevin has started several small bands in the Elmore and Autauga County areas. He’s helping us teach music and cover all the rudimentary parts of being in a band. He’s truly been an inspiration to the kids and parents,&uot; Mullins said.

While the school is starting small with the band program, it is Mullin’s hope the FDA Pep Band will lead on to even bigger and better things in the future.

&uot;We plan to grow. We want to add woodwinds at a later date, and, eventually, hire a director who can build a full-fledged marching and concert band here at FDA,&uot; she explained.

The band plans to meet in the music room upstairs over the gym (access from outside stairs) each Monday from 9 a.m. to noon.

&uot;We realize those hours may not work for everybody, but if we get enough interest, we can hold some evening rehearsals, too. We can be very flexible about this. We want everyone who wants to be a part of this to have that chance,&uot; Mullins said.

The band hopes to be ready to &uot;raise the roof&uot; for FDA fans at the August 26 home game.

&uot;Anyone who is interested in this, is encouraged to come and join us, or give us a call,&uot; she added.

To learn more about the FDA Pep Band, contact Liz Mullins at 382-0009 or the school office at 382-2606.