The University of Kentucky Drum Line is consistently recognized as one of the finest in the nation. Competitively active since 1981, they have placed highly in numerous national competitions including the Spartan Marching Percussion Festival, the Percussive Arts Society Marching Percussion Festival, and the Bands of America Collegiate Marching Percussion Festival. Many of the members and staff of the U.K. Drum Line are current and former members of several top drum and bugle corps, as well as some of the top high school bands in the country.

Everyone, regardless of major, is welcome to audition for the drum line. Members of the U.K. Drum Line represent a diverse cross-section of the student population. Although many of the members of the U.K. Drum Line are performance or education majors in the School of Music, membership is based on enthusiasm, dedication and a successful audition.

Audition requirements are designed to accommodate a wide range of proficiency levels. Although there is no specific required music, incoming students interested in auditioning for the drum line should be prepared to play any of the 40 P.A.S. International Drum Rudiments and a short rudimental solo of their choice that best displays their ability. Advanced students can also prepare any of the Contemporary Combination Rudiments compiled by Jim Campbell.The drum line staff allows anyone to audition for snare drum, multi-tenors, bass drum and cymbals. The U.K. Marching Band does not field a "pit" section. Formal auditions are held each Spring and instrumental placement takes place during the pre-season "Early Week".

For more information regarding auditions for the UK "Wildcat" Marching Band Drum Line, complete the form on the following official Wildcat Marching Band audition information page.