The Powerhouse of the South is the most visible of the SSU Bands, providing the color and excitement of Tiger Athletics and enrichment of university life. The band performs regularly at home and selected away football games, parades, battle of the bands, and accepts invitations to perform throughout the Southeast. The band schedule does not conflict with other academic classes.
The Marching Band holds its annual preseason band camp approximately two weeks prior to the fall term. Band camp is required of all members and consists of placement auditions, fundamentals training, and show preparations. After the conclusion of camp, the band resumes a class-time rehearsal schedule. The band rehearses Monday-Friday from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. during the fall semester.
Auditions must be scheduled during open campus day, or through the band office. Auditions are by appointment only. Prospective students are encouraged to audition as early as possible. A limited number of scholarships are available depending on the needs of the program and playing ability. Students who are unable to audition in person may send a video audition (see below). The band audition is a tool designed to offer some indication of a musician’s instrumental performance proficiency.
Adjudication scores will be based on tone, technique, style, and dynamics on scales and prepared pieces. Sight-Reading scores will be based on rhythm, counting, accuracy of notes, articulation, and style.
Scholarships are available to most students who pass their audition and are offered a position in the band. Please contact Dr. Gabriel Arnold (Director of Bands) at [email protected] or Mr. Aubrey Simmons (Assistant Director of Bands) at [email protected] for more information.
