The show must go on.

Director of ISU Cyclone Football “Varsity” Marching Band [ISUCF”V”MB] and associate director of bands Matthew Smith announced in June that he had decided to leave Iowa State for another position.

Smith’s decision was swift, he said he received an offer from Indiana University to be assistant director of bands just the previous week.

“It was a shocker to me. I was not expecting that at all, especially at this point in the summer,” said Cathy Cooney, senior in history and member of ISUCF”V”MB.

However, Michael Golemo, chairman of the music department, said that in the music world, being conductor of a marching band is usually a stepping stone position and he wasn’t surprised by the switch.

“We know he’s destined for bigger and better things, and we wish him luck,” Golemo said.

Smith said his position at Indiana University will include similar responsibilities, but he would do more conducting and working with the concert band. He said he was attracted by the high quality and size of the program.

However, Smith said he had “no idea” whether he would stay there long-term or whether another switch was in his future.

Smith continued to work through June at Iowa State, recruiting and auditioning new students.

Natalie Steele, currently assistant director of bands, will take over Smith’s position for the coming year. In addition to her work with ISUCF”V”MB, Steele had six years of experience leading a marching band at Abilene Christian University in Abilene, Texas.

“I’m confident she will do an outstanding job in this temporary capacity,” Golemo said.

Steele said she didn’t have any major changes planned for the band, adding that it was “in great shape,” and she would maintain a lot of the traditions associated with ISUCF”V”MB.

In the meantime, the music department will conduct a search for a permanent replacement. Steele said it was uncertain whether she would apply or resume her assistant position.

Golemo said Smith has acted as “a real advocate for the students” during his time at Iowa State.

“He lets us know he’s proud of the band and what we’ve done, which really makes us want to work hard for him,” Cooney said.

That hard work paid off in what Golemo called “a high level of musicianship and polish.”

“I’m proud of the hard work of our students and the great shows we’ve put on,” Smith said.

His other accomplishments include increasing the size of the band and creating a strong relationship between the band and athletic department.

Smith said the thing he will remember most about Iowa State is the people.

“I’d like to thank all of the students, faculty and staff for a tremendous experience at Iowa State, [it] is a very special place.”