Frequently Asked Questions
Who We Are!
We are the University at Buffalo Marching Band. We are the largest (and most fun) spirit organization on campus. Quite simply, we represent the spirit of the University at Buffalo. We accomplish this by performing halftime shows at home football games, traveling to away games, and performances across the state, and having a good time while doing so! We can be found on the practice field at Kunz Field during the Fall semester on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm practicing our field show. You can also catch us suited up in the stands and on the field for football games in UB Stadium. Simply put, we have a great time. We enjoy the camaraderie of being a part of a great group of performers and friends!
What is the Band's performance style?
The Thunder of the East is a "drum corps" style marching ensemble that incorporates traditional marching band instrumentation: woodwinds, brass, and percussion. The musicians of the band are accompanied on-field by a sensational color-guard (flags), “Dazzlers” dance team, and majorettes. Membership in the band is open to all University at Buffalo students without audition regardless of major.
Who is eligible to march in the Thunder of the East?
All students enrolled at the University at Buffalo are eligible to participate in the Thunder of the East. Being a music major is not a requirement. In 2008, over 97% of the members were non-music majors. Marching Band students' academic majors encompass nearly every major offered by the University.
Do I have to Audition for Band?
All interested students will have a spot in the 2009 UB Marching BandInstrumentalists- No. Auditions and/or prior marching experience are not required.
Drumline- YES- Auditions will be used to determine placement in the Drumline. 2009 Drumline Instrumentation- (10 Snares, 5 Quints, 5 Basses, 8 Cymbals) Total 28 Members
"Dazzlers" Dance Team- YES- Auditions will be used to determine placement on the Dazzlers Dance Team. Maximum 32 members.
Pit Percussion- No, Auditions are not required.
Colorguard- No, Auditions and/or prior marching experience are not required. (some experience is recommended)
Twirlers- No, Auditions and/or prior marching experience are not required. (some experience is recommended)
How much time does marching band take?
Band Camp- The band arrives at the University a week before classes start for "fun in the sun". The daily band camp schedule runs in two sessions with afternoons free for students to take advantage of early arrival; i.e. buy books, setup their dorm rooms, have fun, and everyone's favorite... take a nap! (Session 1: 9 am-1 pm; Session 2: 5 pm-10 pm). Following Band Camp the band will rehearse three nights per week (MWF 6:30-8:30 pm). The band will perform at all home football games, select away games, and other public performances. The Marching Band season concludes in early December. For detailed information please see the band schedule.
Will practices and performance take away from my studies?
Marching band members are typically among the highest academic performers on campus. We feel that this is because band members learn to budget their time effectively and have a creative outlet outside the classroom. It also helps to arrive on campus early and to associate with students who know how to achieve academic success. Additionally, most students typically do not study during the early evening hours (MWF 6:30-8:30 pm).
Will we compete against other bands?
No. Contrary to popular belief, marching band competitions do not exist at the University level. However, we strive to be the best at what we do at all times... so we compete with ourselves. We focus our energy toward making the UB campus and our community and exciting place to be on game days and we will be creating and carrying on the traditions that make UB a very special place!
What are some additional benefits to being a member of the Marching Band?
You mean other than hanging out with the awesome sax section?
- All members receive stipends upon successful completion of the marching band season. Freshmen -$125, Veterans- $175
- Additional scholarships awards are presented each year to the Most Valuable Player and Freshman of the Year.
- Scholarships are available for those that are eligible
- Perform in front of over 1 million people
- Perform on National Television
- Travel to many places in the Northeast
- Early Move-in... ..you may not realize it now but it is a HUGE advantage!
- Earn academic credit for participation- 2 credits
- Most important... 150+ new friends, upperclassmen in your major, and having a head start on everyone else before the semester begins!
Are there any costs associated with membership?
Members are required to purchase marching shoes for the season ($25). There is also an option to purchase an official "Thunder of the East" jacket ($45), both of which can be deducted from your stipend. Official uniform t-shirts are provided free of charge during band camp.
When do we start?
Band Camp begins the week before classes start. The first day is August 22nd for Drumline, Dazzlers, and Colorguard. The rest of the band will report on Monday, August 24th. Food and housing for the week is provided free of charge. Band camp is mandatory for all those wishing to participate in the 2009 "Thunder of the East" Marching Band.
Where do I sign up?
There is a registration page on our website labeled "Join the Band".
Simply fill in the required information and you'll be all set!
