Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What do I prepare?

A 2 to 4 minute piece exhibiting contrasting styles. These styles should show off what you do best. You have a few minutes to “WOW” the adjudicator. Preparing jazz or classical styles is fine. Solo and Ensemble pieces work very well. Remember that this is an audition, not a recital, so you will not play through ALL of the prepared selections. The adjudicator will probably cut you off, or ask you to skip around a bit. Selections do NOT need to be accompanied.

When will I play?

We will meet in room 120 of the Music Building at 10:00 am for a brief meeting. At approximately 10:30 am, “first come first served” will begin to play for individual adjudicators (If you want to go first – get in the front of the line). No one should be here later than 1:00 PM.

When do I find out if I made the band?

A mailing goes out on July 1st (approx).

Will I be interviewed?

The adjudicator will talk with you and ask questions. Just be yourself. Be up, positive, confident, etc.

What do I wear?

Be casual and comfortable.

When would SMB start in the fall/summer?

Spartan Band Preseason Drills (band camp) takes place on campus the week before classes begin. If you earn a spot in the band, you will receive permission to move in to YOUR dorm room early (just like a football player). You will live in your room for the duration of Preseason.

How much practice/rehearsal is there?

Our regular rehearsals are from 4:30 to 6:00 PM, Mon – Fri. An additional rehearsal is held on Monday evenings from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. Gameday rehearsals are usually at 7:30 am.

Are there sectionals?

Yes, on an average of twice per week (Wed and Fri) from 4:00 PM to 4:25 PM.

Is the SMB a class?

Yes, members of the SMB must sign up for MUS 114 and pay for one credit. This is not optional.

What do I need to pay for?

The class credit, your band jacket ($125), white gloves and band shoes ($ 35-40), your season-long uniform dry cleaning (approx $ 60-75), various SMB gear/t-shirts/etc ($ 20), and maintenance of your personal instrument.

Will I be given an instrument to use?

Yes, if you play mello, baritone or tuba. Silver trombones are issued to trombonists for game-day use only. Trumpets and Saxes must provide their own instrument. Trumpets (used in performance) MUST be silver. No cornets may be used in practice of performance. Personal practice trombones may NOT have F-attachments.

If I live out of state, I’m supposed to send an audition tape, right?

Yes, assuming that you do not want to travel to the audition day. If that is the case, send an audiocassette tape or CD. Do not send videotape. Perform your selection as well as the following scales; C, F, B flat, E flat, A flat, G, D, A and E major. Be sure to include your contact information so we can get back to you. The tape MUST arrive at MSU on or before June 10, 2005.

Send tape to:

Professor John T. Madden
Director, Spartan Marching Band
118 School of Music
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI 48824-1043

For more information, please contact the Band Secretary, Ms. Sharon Tyree (517-355-7654).

MSU Band Office
517-355-7654/50
517-432-0726 (fax)