uky.eduUNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY BANDS
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for membership?
Any UK or LCC student, regardless of major, is eligible for membership. Contrary to popular belief, most of the members of the Wildcat Marching Band are not music majors.
Can it be taken for credit?
Yes, Marching Band, MUC 190, earns one college credit per semester. This credit may be used as an elective in any degree program.
When does the band rehearse?
The marching band rehearses M-W-F from 5 pm - 7 pm. No "extra" rehearsals are scheduled.
What does it cost?
The University of Kentucky provides the financial support for the band. There is generally no expense for being in band except for the purchase of marching shoes and optional purchases such as a band jacket, T-shirt, recordings, and decals. Band members do no fundraising!
How do I audition?
Auditions for woodwinds and brass may be scheduled any time during the year. The audition may done during a campus visit ~or~ you may submit a cassette tape. The audition material should include a:
- chromatic scale demonstrating your practical range
- several major scales of your choice
- a short exercise/excerpt demonstrating your technical and musical ability.
Auditions for the percussion section are held during our Early Week. Auditions for the guard and majorettes are held in April. Call the UK Band Office, (859) 257-BAND(2263) to have your name included on our mailing list.
Do you have a band camp?
"Early Week", as UK's band camp is called, is held a week before classes begin and includes extensive training in marching and playing at the college level. During this period there are dances, parties, receptions, and an "end of the week" picnic. Those students who have been assigned a dorm room can move into their room during this period at no charge. The band provides all meals. The band's early arrival on campus provides each individual an opportunity to get settled in the dorms, buy books, make new friends, and adjust to a new environment and a new independence before classes begin.
Does the band travel?
The band normally travels twice a year, one overnight trip and one marching exhibition. The band has recently traveled to Georgia, Indiana, Vanderbilt, Ole Miss, Tennessee, LSU, Auburn, Alabama, and Florida. Travel expenses such as transportation, lodging, and meals are provided by the University of Kentucky. There is no cost to the band members.
How do I participate in the Basketball Pep Band?
Auditions for the 100+ member pep band are held in October and includes music from one of the football shows. Pep band participants must be members of the marching band.
Would you like more information on the Wildcat Marching Band? If so please click here to fill out an information request form; the start of your journey to being a WMB member!
University Bands
33 Fine Arts Building
Lexington, KY 40506-0022
OFFICE: 859-257-BAND
OFFICE FAX: 859-257-8192