Adam Sparks

asparks@tennessean.com

Vanderbilt’s marching band will be allowed to play at its own homecoming game after an online petition of nearly 4,000 signatures pressed the university to make such an announcement.

The petition said the Spirit of Gold Marching Band originally was told it would not be allowed to perform at halftime of the Commodores’ homecoming game versus Tennessee State on Oct. 22 at Vanderbilt Stadium. Instead, TSU’s Aristocrat of Bands would perform in its place.

But on Monday, Vanderbilt released a statement clarifying that both bands will perform during halftime. The Spirit of Gold Band also will play a pregame show.

"The bands’ performances will be part of a busy day with the 1965 football team being recognized along with the 2016 Outstanding Senior nominees and crowning of the 2016 Outstanding Senior as well as the Reunion Cup presentation," the statement said.

The announcement came after a change.org petition quickly drew support, asking fans to “join us in asking Vice Chancellor (David) Williams and Chancellor (Nicholas) Zeppos to reverse this decision and allow the Spirit of Gold to perform in their rightful time slot at halftime of this year's Vanderbilt Homecoming.”

Reach Adam Sparks at 615-259-8010 and on Twitter @AdamSparks.