Frequently Asked Questions
Who Are We?
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 with Power, Precision, and Passion!!
We can be found on the practice field at Kunz Field during the Fall semester on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. practicing our field show. You can also catch us suited up in the stands and on the field for football games in UB Stadium and sometimes we can be seen on ESPN!
Simply put, we have a great time. We enjoy the camaraderie of being a part of a great huge 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 Twirlers.
Do I have to Audition for Band?
Instrumentalists: NO, Auditions and/or prior marching experience is not required for membership. An audition is required if requesting scholarship consideration.
UB Drumline: YES, Auditions will be used to determine placement in the Drumline. Placement audition can be used for scholarship consideration. 2010 Drumline Instrumentation- (8 Snares, 5 Quints, 5 Basses, 8 Cymbals) Total 26 Members
"Dazzlers" Dance Team: YES, Auditions will be used to determine placement on the Dazzlers Dance Team. Placement audition can be used for scholarship consideration. Maximum 24members.
Colorguard/Twirlers: NO, Auditions and/or prior marching experience are not required (some experience is recommended). An audition is required if requesting scholarship consideration.
How much time does marching band take?
Time commitment with the Marching Band is as follows:
Band Camp- (August 20 - 28): 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 most 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 a.m. - Noon; Session 2: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.). We also will hold fun competitions during the week with prizes and giveaways to the best sections Monday-Thursday of camp!
Following Band Camp- 2011 Fall Semester: the band will rehearse two nights per week (MW 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.). Thats just FOUR Hours!! We also have "Flex Fridays" wherein the Leadership Corps (officers, drum majors, section leaders) will meet to assist any member as needed. The band will perform at all home football games, select away games, and other public performances including the New York State Field Band Conference Championships in Syracuse, NY. 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 also had member awarded the SUNY Chancellor Academic Award Member this past year. 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 (MW 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.).
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 an 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?
Band Talent and Performance Scholarships: $250 - $750
The Marching Band offers scholarships for dedicated members by audition. Scholarships are awarded for exceptional dedication and musical ability. These scholarships are open to all members and do require a successful audition. Scholarship applications are available in the members area of the marching band webpage in late June and will be available during freshman orientation. All veteran members and prospective members are encouraged to apply!
Stipends: All freshman and veteran members receive a $125-$225 stipend (dependent on their duties) upon successful completion of the marching band season. (Note: If you are awarded a scholarship you are not eligible to receive a stipend in addition to the scholarship). Separate awards are presented each year to the "Most Valuable Player" and "Freshman of the Year" (no audition required for consideration of these two awards).
Additional Benefits:
- Perform for millions of people live and on television!
- 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- MUS 130
- Most important... 180+ new friends, upperclassmen in your major, and having a head start on everyone else before the semester begins!
When do we start?
Band Camp begins the week before classes start. The first day of camp for the full band is August 20. Band Camp Dates- August 20 - 28, 2011. Food and housing for the week are provided free to all members. Note-housing/early move-in is provided free of charge to those members who will be residing in the residence halls for the 2011-2012 school year. If you will be residing off campus please make necessary arrangements for your move in.
Band Camp attendance is mandatory for all those wishing to participate in the 2011 "Thunder of the East" Marching Band and UB Dazzlers Dance Team.
Where do I sign up?
There is a registration page on our website labeled "Join the Band" or go directly to the registration page.
Simply fill in the required information and you'll be all set!
