What is the time commitment involved with joining?
The band rehearses fall semester Monday, Tuesday, Thursday from 5:15 to 7:15 p.m. and Friday 5:00-7:00 p.m. The band also has a short run through on game day.
Is there a band camp?
Yes. The Band starts preseason camp on the Oakland campus about a week and a half before classes start and continues at the Bradford campus. Marching fundamentals, the traditional pregame show, the first halftime show and much of our stands music is learned at camp. There is no cost for camp. Band camp 2025 will start Friday, August 8th and run to Friday, August 15th.
Are Scholarships available?
Each band member receives a modest scholarship and each year the student is in the band that amount goes up. Small scholarships are also available for VolleyBand and Basketball Pep Band.
Does The Band travel?
Yes. The Band from time to time travels to one game each season, in addition to any bowl game or championship game the team makes. There is no cost for travel. Students will be given the full travel schedule at the beginning of the season.
Do I need to bring/rent my own instrument?
No. Instruments will be provided for everyone. There is no rental fee.
Do I have to fund raise?
Any costs that are associated with traveling with the band will be covered by the Athletic Department, as well as the cost of any necessary Pitt Band merchandise. However, personal items such as black marching shoes, reeds, etc. are not provided. Students are asked to encourage friends a family to donate to the when possible.
Will being in the band hurt my grades?
No. One third of our band is comprised of engineering majors, and another third is made up of health care majors. The remaining third comes from other areas of academia, such as business, the humanities, and the natural sciences. So, there will always be someone there who can help you with homework and give advice on how to balance the workload.
Will I have free time if I want to join organizations outside of band?
Yes. Many of our band members are involved with honor societies for their majors, fraternities and sororities, ROTC, and many other activities that are available on campus.
Are there auditions?
Yes. All candidates must complete an audition prior to the start of Band Camp. Auditions are scheduled in the spring and information is available at pittband.com. Email Dr. Brad Townsend at
btownsend@athletics.pitt.edu with audition questions.
What Positions are available?
Woodwinds:
- Piccolo
- Bb Clarinet
- Alto Saxophone
- Tenor Saxophone
Brass:
- Bb Trumpet
- Mellophone
- Trombone
- Baritone
- Bass (Tuba)
Percussion:
- Snare Drum
- Tenor Drums
- Bass Drum
- Cymbals
Other:
- Color Guard
- Golden Girls (Majorettes)
What other Band Ensembles are offered?
- Volleyball Pep Band: Active during the fall and performs at women’s volleyball games and the NCAA Tournament
- Basketball Pep Band: Active during the basketball season and performs at all men’s and women’s home games, the ACC Tournaments, and the NCAA or NIT Tournaments.
- Symphonic Band: Rehearses and performs in the spring semester. Auditions are required for membership, part assignments and seating.
Have any questions not answered above? Contact Dr. Brad Townsend at btownsend@athletics.pitt.edu
