The Notre Dame Band has always been a very active organization . Its early purpose was apparently to lift the spirits of students and provide entertainment on special occasions . The Band has also been on hand to witness many highs and lows in American history . It played at the university 's " Main Circle " as students left to join the armies both North and South during the American Civil War . The Band played at the circle whenever students left to fight in World War I , World War II , Korea and Vietnam , and played a benefit concert for the victims of the Great Chicago Fire in 1871 . The band has played around the country and around the world for countless concerts , masses , graduations , civic functions , bowl games , parades , athletic contests and many , many national championships . In recent years the Band has traveled to Michigan , Michigan State , Pittsburgh , Penn State , West Virginia , Missouri , Nebraska , Tennessee , Oklahoma , Southern California and Florida State . Bowl appearances have included the Fiesta Bowl , Gator Bowl , Cotton Bowl , Orange Bowl , the Sugar Bowl , the Sun Bowl , and the BCS National Championship Game
Great Chicago Fire
Great Chicago Fire
Band of the Fighting Irish