WSU Cougar Marching Band :: About :: Frequently Asked Questions


	When do I have to be here for band camp? New members begin band camp on Sunday, August 14th, 2005. This is the same day that the residence halls open. Returning members begin the day after: Monday, August 15th, 2005. Do I have to audition to be in the marching band? There are no auditions determining enrollment with the exception of the Drumline. However, part placement auditions for incoming students occur on the day of registration: Sunday, August 14th, 2005. Do I have to be a music major or minor to participate? Not at all. In fact, only 14% of the CMB consists of music majors. How much time does the Marching Band require of me during a typical week? During a week without a Saturday game the band rehearses for five hours. During a week with a Saturday game the band rehearses for seven hours. Game-day performances occupy roughly six hours. For a detailed description of weekly events, see A Typical Week. Does it cost anything to be in the band? There is an annual fee of $25 to participate in the Cougar Marching Band. This money goes towards your T-shirt, baseball cap, flip-folder, music and chart copying. All other band related costs, such as food and travel costs, are covered by the Cougar Marching Band. Do I get paid to be in the band? The Cougar Marching Band offers graduated stipends. First and second year members receive $200 stipends whereas third year and older members receive $300. Section leaders and drum majors receive an additional $200 stipend. Pep band members receive a $200 stipend for each pep band they are in. We have three pep bands: Women's Volleyball and Men's and Women's Basketball. Does my stipend count against my financial aid or work study? No. You do fill out a time card to receive your stipend, but it does not count against your financial aid nor work study. How many different half-time shows does the band perform each year? The Cougar Marching Band performs a new half-time show for each home game totaling 5 or 6 per season. We often repeat best show for the Apple Cup or bowl games. With so many different shows, does the band memorize the music and moves? Music memorization is only required for the Drumline. However, the entire band is pushed to memorize pep tunes such as those played during pregame. Where does the band rehearse? Monday nights are usually inside Kimbrough Music Building in the concert hall for music rehearsal. Outdoor rehearsals take place in Martin Stadium. However, there may be a select few nights during the season when the band rehearses at Grimes Way Field. My professor scheduled an exam during a rehearsal, what should I do? Please fill out an excused absence form found on the bulletin board outside the band office (Kimbrough 241). Your education comes before band. I have a lab that runs over rehearsal a few minutes. Can I arrive late to rehearsal? Yes; you are a student first. After making prior arrangements with your section leader you may arrive late or leave early as long as you do not disrupt rehearsal.