Stay Gold, Marshall
For any person who attended middle or high school in the United States, there is a strong probability that you read “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton. Now a banned book in several states, The Outsiders is a coming-of-age story that speaks to the bonds of friendship that hold us together. If you are like me, there is one emotional line from the book that probably stuck with you. “Stay gold, Ponyboy, stay gold.” While I was unable, at the time, to accurately describe the meaning of this statement for my literature essay, it was a sentiment that I felt I understood deep within. I was reminded of this when I sat down to talk with Marshall Broyles.
First impression: quiet and reserved with a kind smile. His laptop has only one, perfectly centered sticker on it. Marshall is intentional. He answered my questions in that same way: with intention.
A few themes quickly emerge. I have to tell you that Marshall loves the Beatles. He swears it’s not an obsession or anything weird like that (mmm-hmmm, I say) but he mentions them three separate times during our discussion. Music means connection for Marshall. He has been in a variety of different bands since high school when he and his friend created Amity Motion, so named because of the strong friendship they shared.
I have prepared several types of questions, some silly, some factual, and some that I worry are too deep. With a wave of his hand, he almost dismisses my silly questions. Not important, not worth it. Although I am nervous to ask him my more introspective questions, that is where the substance emerges.
Marshall remembers his dad, who had been a drummer, bringing home his snare drums when Marshall was young. This event and the LOUD drumming that ensued was the dawn of music for Marshall. Music was not just a sound in the background. Music was a thing that could be created. Marshall indeed embraced this concept. He played the saxophone in his elementary school band, had some fun with the drums, and later started guitar lessons as a teenager.
Throughout his years of playing music, creation and community remain the intention for Marshall. To use his words, music is the binding force of humanity. It is about collaboration and shared experiences. He thrives while working with friends who may be using different instruments but playing in harmony. He loves those moments when a variety of people listen to the same music and each have an emotional response to it.
When I asked if he has a favorite band, he was unable to answer. (Although, I should tell you, he did mention the Beatles.) He enjoys listening to bedroom pop bands, a music genre that is low budget and self-produced by individuals, often from their bedrooms. He is fascinated by the innovation of musicians who create music with any budget and equipment. He is currently part of three bands himself: the Kevin Herig Trio (with Kevin Herig and Jameson Ray), Ugly Robot (with Kenny Broyles and Dustin Harvey), and Homebody (with Kendall Jones).
Marshall brings his enthusiasm for creation and community to Rock 101. He began working for Rock 101 in 2016, straight out of college. He started off as an instructor and later spent time as the Curriculum Director. In early 2023, Marshall stepped into the Assistant Director position. The same qualities that inspire him about music are the aspects that make him feel strongly tied to Rock 101. He loves the community of Rock 101, from the instructors to the students and parents. He finds Rock 101 to be the perfect combination of an upbeat, playful attitude paired with quality instruction and discipline.
As our conversation wraps up, I realize I really enjoyed spending time with Marshall. I imagine that his sincerity and intention to be purposeful are the superpowers that enable him to create authentic connections with those around him. When I think back to “The Outsiders” essay from high school, the reason it fell flat was because I had yet to experience the sentiment described. As an adult, I can tell you that although it is a beautiful thing to find, it is also rare. Sitting at a crayon-covered child's table in the entryway of Rock 101, I find myself smiling at someone who embodies this elusive quality.
Ob la di ob la da, Marshall. Stay gold.
- Danielle Parker