Nilson has donated the use of a 53-foot trailer to carry the instruments, uniforms, and equipment for 360 members each home game, as well as to select away games and exhibition events. In addition to the use of the trailer and the tractor to pull it, Nilson is also donating the labor for a driver.
On a typical game day, the Carolina Band transports 35 sousaphones, a full drumline, a sound system, ladders, uniforms and other equipment, according to Carolina Band Director and Associate Professor in the School of Music, Jay Jacobs. “Having the space available in the new trailer makes the lengthy loading and unloading process much easier on our students and staff at the end of a physically draining game day,” he said.
On a typical game day, the Carolina Band transports 35 sousaphones, a full drumline, a sound system, ladders, uniforms and other equipment. (Now) everyone knows the Carolina Band has arrived when they see our beautiful semi pull up!
– Jay Jacobs, Carolina Band Director and USC School of Music Associate Professor
“Beyond its functionality, the trailer is a shining example of the pride and support we get from fans and alumni,” continues Jacobs. “It is an example of what their support can provide to current and future Carolina Band students. This trailer symbolizes the Carolina Band, which represents the University of South Carolina. We are sincerely grateful to everyone at Nilson Van and Storage.”
Director of Bands at USC, Dr. Cormac Cannon agrees, “This partnership with Nilson is a total game-changer for our students. Not only does it provide an important connection with a local, family-owned business, but also ensures our Carolina Band students can perform in new and exciting locations, and will, of course, make sure everyone knows the Carolina Band has arrived when they see our beautiful semi pull up!”
Vice President Jonathan Nilson feels the commitment to the Carolina Band is an extension of their place in the community. “The University of South Carolina has a large impact in our business because we are made up of several Carolina grads, huge Carolina fans, and a staff that simply loves everything USC stands for in our community,” said Nilson. Helping the Carolina Band gives Nilson Van and Storage the opportunity to give a token of appreciation to the college that has helped teach, train and mature so many of us at Nilson. We love Carolina and we are thankful to be a part of the Mighty Sound of the Southeast. Go Gamecocks!”
Craig Roger, Corporate Logistics Manager at Nilson Van and Storage is a Carolina Band alumnus who fondly remembers his days in the Band and now as a fan and corporate sponsor. “The dedication, hard work and long hours it took to be a member of The Carolina Band provided me with the work ethic that is needed to perform and produce in our business and all businesses,” said Roger. “The many experiences, friends/bandmates, and fun memories that the Carolina Band and the University of South Carolina provides is something that stays with you forever.”
About the USC School of Music
The University of South Carolina School of Music believes music is an essential component of the human experience. Our mission is to prepare our students to be skilled music leaders to ensure that they advance the quality of life in their communities by helping to make others happier, healthier, more hopeful and more fulfilled through the power of music. We do this not only by advancing musical instruction at the highest level for students' professional preparation, but also by leveraging the actual daily work done by students and faculty in the teaching and learning of music to unlock music’s unlimited potential to improve lives throughout the Midlands and beyond.
About Nilson Van & Storage
Since 1938, members of the Nilson family have owned and operated Nilson Van & Storage. This makes us one of the oldest, single-family owned moving and storage companies in our state. By treating clients and their possessions with care and respect, we help ease them into a new and exciting part of their lives. We are thankful for all of our customers and the opportunities they have given us over the years. We Stive to be the best Mover and Logistics provider in South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia and even the world.
Topics: Carolina Band, Bands at USC