1. Is there an audition process for a place in the band?

- So far, auditions for the UCMB have not been needed. In certain sections, such as the drumline or the trumpets, there are instrument placement evaluations that are done in the first few days of preseason to determine parts. However, there are musical parts that must be memorized prior to arrival at Preseason - click here for more information.

2. I've never marched before... can I join the band?

- Of course! The UCMB prides itself in teaching its members and helping even the most inexperienced marchers achieve great things. In fact, two Drum Majors in the past three years had never marched before coming to the UCMB. Our preseason begins with teaching basics to all members to ensure uniform style. Even members without marching band experience find themselves proficient after this session.

3. Am I expected to provide my personal instrument?

- Woodwind, trumpet, and trombone players should use their personal instruments, though there are a limited number available to borrow. All other brass and percussion instruments are provided by the University, and will be assigned at Check-In. Please contact Marvin McNeill for more information.

4. How often does the marching band travel during the season?

- The UCMB primarily performs at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Connecticut, as well as various local high school exhibitions ranging from Rockville, Connecticut all the way to New Jersey. At times the band has been asked to accompany the fooBand Fieldll team to a nearby game, such as Syracuse or Boston College, but these visits are usually limited to one per season. However, should the Huskies be selected to a Bowl Game, band members may potentially be traveling over winter break. Keep your fingers crossed.

5. Is the UCMB a class?

- Yes. The UCMB is a one credit class, which all members must register for, and meets Tues/Thurs/Fri from 4-6pm. The class is for the fall semester only and can be found in the academic catalog under MUSI 1108. Contact Dr. Mills for scheduling conflicts.

6. What if I have a class conflict with rehearsal?

- Band members are asked to schedule all classes outside marching band rehearsal times. In most cases, alternatives to conflicting classes can be found. Occasionally a student will have a class that conflicts with a portion of the marching band rehearsal. This typically occurs for upperclassmen with single-section courses required by their major. Because of the many options available to freshmen, they should be able to find scheduling alternatives without conflicts. Conflicts must be approved by Dr. Mills through the proper forms. Contact Dr. Mills for scheduling conflicts.

7. Do band members move on to campus early? If so, do they live in special housing?

- Yes! Members of the band move on to campus on Monday, August 24 for a week of Preseason. All band members will check in at the music building on the morning of August 24, and then students who are living on campus will be given instructions regarding where to get their room key. Band members live in all areas of campus, and students will get to move into their actual room (not a temporary one) for preseason. Preseason housing is not provided by the university for band members who are commuters, but you can contact us if you commute and would like the convenience of staying nearby with another member.

8. Are members required to purchase their own uniforms?

- No. Basic uniforms are provided for band members during the season. Check the Preseason page for information on items needed for the season including shoes and gloves.

9. Can a student from any major participate in the band?

- Yes. Within the UCMB during any particular season, nearly every major on campus is represented in the band, from pharmacy majors to music majors to engineers to almost any other major you can think of. For a complete list, visit the UCMB By the Numbers . Being in the UCMB is a commitment, but not one that will keep someone from succeeding in their studies. UCMB membership includes numerous Honors students as well as students involved in many challenging academic programs and other campus activities.

10. I'm interested in learning a new instrument... is that possible? [OR] I've never played an instrument before, but I'm interested in joining the band. Has this ever been done?

- Definitely. The UCMB can always use more Horn, Baritone, Trombone, and Tuba players, as well as Percussion and Color Guard. If you have any thoughts of trying a new instrument, contact a section leader from the section you would like to join. This year, for the first year ever, all UCMB Brass parts (except Trumpet) will feature training parts that will allow the newer player to learn and to contribute at the same time.

11. How do I join the Pep Band?

- Members of the Marching Band can audition for the Varsity Pep Bands in October of each year.