Thinking about joining the USC Marching Band?

Are you worried about the time commitment, concerned about costs, or not sure whether joining the band is the right decision for you?

Those who have marched in the band for a few years count their experience in the marching band as one of the most enriching and enjoyable times of their college life. The responsibility and dedication of being in the band is not easy, but the rewards of camaraderie and lifetime friendships are tremendous. Membership in the Carolina Band is a good way to find your 'niche' in a large university. We believe we are a family, and we want you to become a member.

To start the process, complete the following steps:

1. Read and familiarize yourself with the material found on the Information/FAQ's section of the web page.
   
   
2. Submit the online Application for Information form found here. This form puts you directly into our informational database, and allows us to keep you up-to-date on upcoming events, concerts, appearances, etc. If you are a high school junior or senior, this is especially important as you visit and investigate potential colleges.
   
   
3. Although it is not required, you may want to schedule a campus visit to tour the USC campus. While you're here, make an appointment to meet with Dr. Brozak and discuss various aspects of the band. Parents and family members are welcome to attend, too.
   
   
4. Read about the audition process for the section of the band that interests you. This information is found below.
   
   
5. Submit your application to the University of South Carolina. An online application for undergraduate admissions can be found here.

Brass/Woodwind Auditions

Brass and Woodwind players are asked to perform a seating audition for part placement (held during band camp). This is used to help balance part assignments (Trumpet 1, 2, 3, Trombone 1, 2, etc.) throughout the group.

You will be asked 2 major scales and a chromatic scale. You will also be asked to perform a brief sight-reading example

Percussion Auditions

Percussionists will be sent a packet in June/July with warm-ups, exercises, cadences, etc. You will be asked to perform material from this packet for your audition, which will help determine your placement within the section. Auditions take place during band camp.

The USC Marching Band percussion section uses traditional grip on snare drum. Our drums are manufactured by Pearl, and our cymbals are from Zildjian. Our sticks and mallets are from Innovative Percussion.

Color Guard Auditions

Saturday, April 18, 2009 - Blatt Gym (10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.)

No prepared routine is required for the auditions. Students do not need to bring their own flags to the audition, but you are welcome to do so. Please complete the application form (see below) and bring it with you to the audition. 

For additional information, please contact flag captain Joy Pouncey at flagchic@gmail.com.

2008 COLORGUARD AUDITIONS (PDF)

Coquette Auditions

Saturday, April 18, 2009 - Basketball Practice Facility (10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.)

During the audition, candidates are taught a dance routine and asked to perform examples of dance moves. Please complete the application form (see below) and bring it with you to the audition.

For more information, please contact Coquette captain Linaya Haas at hassl@mailbox.sc.edu.

2008 COQUETTE AUDITIONS (PDF)

Please note: the dance team that performs at basketball games (the "Carolina Girls") is not part of the band program, but is instead part of Atheltics. You can find information about them here.

Drum Major Auditions

Wednesday, April 22 - Thursday, April 23, 2008 - School of Music/Williams-Brice Stadium (Times: TBA).

Drum majors must have marched in the Carolina Band for at least one season preceding the audition.

Auditions will consist of two parts. A formal interview will take place with Dr. Brozak on Wednesday (sign-up times will be available in early April). On Thursday, an evaluation of conducting technique will take place during University Band rehearsal, and an evaluation of teaching and marching skills will take place at Williams-Brice Stadium. Forms for the audition process and other details may be found below.

DRUM MAJOR APPLICATION FORM (PDF)
DRUM MAJOR PROCEDURE FORM (PDF)

Section & Squad Leaders

Section & Squad leaders are selected by the Marching Band Director. There is no audition process.