MAKING MUSIC, BUILDING COMMUNITY TOGETHER
I ' VE SEEN STUDENTS COME OUT OF THEIR SHELLS AND GAIN CONFIDENCE THROUGH PERFORMANCE. THE BAND BECOMES A FAMILY.
- MARK LORTZ
An Enduring Friendship with Baltimore’ s Marching Ravens
Stevenson’ s musical community also extends beyond campus borders. The Caves Sports and Wellness Center on South Campus once served as part of the Baltimore Ravens’ training facility, and Mustang Stadium still houses some of the Ravens’ original lockers.
This connection helped spark a lasting relationship between Stevenson’ s Marching Band and the Marching Ravens, the official band of the Baltimore Ravens. Over the years, the Marching Ravens have rehearsed on Stevenson’ s campus and, according to Band President John Ziemann, have recruited over 100 Stevenson alumni into their ranks.
“ There’ s a wonderful friendship between the Marching Ravens and Stevenson,” Ziemann said.“ The hospitality we’ ve received has been overwhelming, and we’ ve met so many amazing people from this community.”
Creating Community Through Music
From its modest beginnings to its current momentum, Stevenson’ s music program has always been about more than just performance. It’ s about connection— bringing people together through shared purpose, creativity, and joy.
Since Mark Lortz became Director of Music in 2017, the program has expanded even further, adding a Concert Band, Pep
Band, and the University Singers.“ Over the last few years, the music program has exploded,” Lortz said.“ The musical arts have become a strong part of our campus culture.”
The upcoming opening of the Sandra and Malcolm Berman Family Performing Arts Center marks the beginning of a new chapter— one where the arts will have a dedicated, purpose-built home.“ One of the great advantages of the Berman Center is that it will give our students a permanent space to practice and perform,” Lortz said.
But for those who have shaped and lived this story, the heart of the music program
20 | VENTURES / FALL 2025