Why should I join the Band?
As a freshman, you will arrive to campus early and meet 200 other students from different backgrounds before classes begin. All members also have the opportunity to travel with the band and perform around the nation.
Do I have to audition to be in the band?
No. Instrumentalists are not required to audition for the Marching Band. However, you must have playing experience. We encourage everyone to join; our students come from a vast variety of musical backgrounds. Once you arrive at Band Camp, section instructors will assign parts based on skill level. All Color Guard and Dance Team candidates must send in audition tapes. See the Dance Team and Color Guard pages for additional information.
Do I have to know how to march to be in the band?
No. Prior marching experience is not required to join the Band. In fact, many of our members have no marching experience before joining. Upon arrival at Band Camp, all new members undergo basic marching instruction.
Do I have to go to BC to be in the Band?
No. The BCMB has a program that allows members of Boston area schools to participate in the organization. This program, known as the “Partner School” program, gives students from Berklee, Emerson, Emmanuel, Northeastern, and Wentworth, among other schools, the opportunity to perform on a national stage and be an integral part of a Division I football program.
How is my Registration Fee used?
Your registration fee is used for the Marching Band accessories, such as a BCMB hooded sweatshirt, t-shirt, baseball hat, winter knit cap, white gloves, maroon socks, and white marching drillmasters. A portion goes towards our social activities during the season.
How often does the band rehearse?
The BC Marching Band rehearses Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:45 PM to 10:00 PM during the semester. All drill instruction takes place at Alumni Stadium, and indoor music instruction takes place in Conte Forum. Regular rehearsals begin the Tuesday after Labor Day and continue until the last day of the season.
When does Band Camp take place?
The 2009 Camp will begin on August 26th and continue until the first home football game on September 5th. The Band will provide housing and a meal card for the duration of Camp.
Do I have to play an instrument or be a visual performer to be a member of the Band?
No. Aside from musicians, dancers, and color guard members, the Band employs several dedicated and hard-working managers without whom the Band could not function. If you’re interested in being a Band manager, contact the Assistant Director of Bands, Erica Beck at 617-552-3018.
How proficient do I need to be on my instrument?
The ability to read music is required for all instrumentalists, and most students enter the Band with prior experience on their instrument. Members frequently choose to learn new instruments to balance the ensemble sound. These students are given ample instruction and guidance throughout this process.
Does the Bands program provide instruments to members?
Yes. The Bands office will provide sousaphones, baritones, mellophones, and piccolos. Some saxophones, trombones, and trumpets are also available on a limited basis. The Band provides all percussion equipment and instrument accessories.
Do I need to be a music major to be in the Band?
No. The Marching Band does not require its members to be music majors. In fact, many of our members have a variety of majors. Nearly every major at the University is represented in the Band!
In what style does the Band march?
The Band performs its half-time and pregame routines corps style.
What music will the Band be playing next year?
The BC “Screaming Eagles” Marching Band performs two distinct shows during the course of the season. The first show of the 2009 season will feature music from Bernstein’s West Side Story and the second show will feature Boston Irish music. In addition to half-time performances, the Band also plays a variety of spirit music during time-outs, in the stands, and at special pep rallies and performances.
