Bemidji State pep band provides homecoming opportunity for 2022 grad Tristen Heller

What could be considered the most visible aspect of the university’s music department, the Bemidji State pep band complements every athletic event at which it performs.

Playing primarily at football, basketball and hockey games, the group is responsible for adding some pep as the Beavers hit the field, the court and the ice.

And since the start of the spring 2025 semester, the pep band has provided a homecoming opportunity for 2022 graduate Tristen Heller, who has raised the baton formerly held by adjunct faculty member Ryan Webber for six years.

“It’s fun to come back to my alma mater and give back in a way,” Heller said. “Most 25-year-old band directors wouldn’t get asked to work at a college, so it’s a pretty unique opportunity.”