You've seen them outside Miami Heat games thirty members strong with their trombones, trumpets, and percussion playing "Hot Hot Hot" while dragging members of the crowd into a limbo line, but the Miami Heat Street Band also play non-Miami Heat affiliated events under the title "the Street Band" including Pumpkinfest on Saturday, October 25 at Beef O'Brady's in Cooper City.
"We started playing for the Miami Heat in 2003," explains the band's director Michael A. Randle. "There was a desire to have us play outside venues. So as the Street Band, this is an opportunity for us, as we have professional, collegiate, and high school musicians."
Randle got his start playing in the band at Miami Edison Senior High School which evolved into joining FAMU's famed Marching 100. Graduation led to a gig in the Busch Gardens' band which performed halftime gigs at Miami Heat games. The Heat organization liked what they saw and expressed interest in forming their own street band.
"Most other teams only have a drumline," Randle describes what makes the Miami Heat Street team unique. "I don't believe there are any other team bands that include choreography like we do. To play and dance at the same time is very difficult."
Randle has fond memories of the band's involvement in the three Miami Heat championship runs. "Any time we performed in the playoffs, there's a whole different level of energy. To be there for a championship is a fulfillment of a dream. It's something you can always look back on as being a part of."
While LeBron James might be gone to colder climates, Randle is still jazzed about the upcoming Heat season. The first home game is Wednesday, October 29, against the Washington Wizards. An event Randle is looking forward to by stating, "I'll always be a Heat fan."
But first is Pumpkinfest, an event dedicated as a tribute to educational activist and haunted house aficionado Steve Schultze who passed away with proceeds going to local PTSA organizations.
The day will also include a performance from pop-punk band Stillframe along with a Halloween costume contest. Randle promises the Street Band plan will play some of their staples from "Hot Hot Hot" and The Rebirth Brass Band's "Do Whatcha Wanna."
"We're going to bring it," he assures.
Pumpkinfest with the Street Band and Stillframe. 3 p.m., Saturday, October 25, Beef O' Bradys, 8655 Stirling Rd., Cooper City.
