The Herd: Amplifying Spirit, Music, and Community at UNO

When The Herd takes the stage at an Omaha hockey or basketball game, the energy is undeniable. The non-competitive drumline, made up of UNO students, alumni, and local musicians, turns every game into a celebration. Their beats echo through the stands, getting fans to their feet, rallying school spirit, and creating a buzz that lingers long after the final whistle blows.

The Herd was founded with one simple goal, which is to bring excitement, enthusiasm, and energy to UNO’s campus and its surrounding community. Known for their spirited performances before home games, they also bring the beat to a host of local events around Omaha.

“It’s so much more than just playing music,” says Kitty Camaro, a second-year graduate student who serves as The Herd’s teaching assistant. “It’s about building something that everyone, current students, alumni, and even the audience, can be a part of.”

For its members, being in The Herd is about personal growth, learning to collaborate, and gaining valuable leadership experience.

“The collaboration within The Herd is unique because of the mix of students with different levels of talent and backgrounds in percussion. It allows for diverse approaches to marching percussion that are often overlooked,” said Camero. “This makes The Herd special because it feels more connected and unified, not just like playing for fun, but as a collective effort. It teaches us all to communicate and express ideas without being overly directive, creating more openness and creativity.”

John Benson, a UNO alum and seasoned drummer with The Herd, pointed to how the group offers a space for older musicians to continue performing at a high level, which is something that often becomes harder to find once they age out of competitive drumlines.

“It’s a chance to perform with high-level musicians, and I get to pass on what I’ve learned to younger players. It’s incredibly rewarding,” Benson shared. His role in The Herd has helped shape Benson into the performer and mentor that he is today.

Ed Staples, a freshman and snare drummer with The Herd, echoes these sentiments. As a music education major, Staples sees his participation in The Herd as an extension of his academic studies.

“The Herd has been a great way to continue my percussion practice outside of class,” he said. “And beyond that, it’s helped me form friendships with people who share the same passion. It’s become like a family.” For Staples, the group’s collaborative nature and the chance to learn from both students and alumni alike make a lasting impact as he continues his path toward becoming an educator.

The Herd is a celebration of UNO’s Maverick spirit, bringing together students, alumni, and the Omaha community in a shared rhythm of pride and passion. The group’s performances, whether they’re at Baxter Arena or walking through Aksarben, create a chance for everyone to come together and be part of something bigger than themselves.