William D. Revelli (February 12, 1902 - July 16, 1994) was the director of bands, including the Michigan Marching Band, at the University of Michigan from 1935-1971. During his 36 years as director, the Michigan Marching Band won international acclaim for its musical precision. Revelli is also credited with innovations that moved college marching bands across the country away from rigid military formations. Among other things, Revelli’s Michigan Marching Band was the first to synchronize music and movement and the first to use an announcer.
