Become Part of the Legend

Would you like to be part of the IUP Marching Band?

The IUP Marching band is open to all IUP students. Auditions are held on all basic instruments, flags, and rifles at the beginning of band camp. Majorettes are auditioned in April. Band camp starts approximately ten days before the first day of classes. Room, board and instruments are provided at no charge to all participants.

The IUP Marching Band provides classic entertainment not only on the IUP football field, but at various festivals and contests as a guest exhibition band.

The band incorporates music which achieves depth and originality in addition to immediate appeal. The music is accented by the unique drill, the step style and precision, the choreography and the flag, rifle and baton work.

The music sets a standard of excellence which is achieved and maintained with discipline and a well-planned training program. It is achieved, most importantly, by talented band members.

How do I become a member of the IUP Marching Band?

Membership is based upon audition. New and old members are required to audition each year. If you play a wind instrument, auditions for the Fall 2007 season are scheduled for Friday, August 15, 2008. Students needing housing will check in from noon until 4, and the auditions will start at 2:30pm. Please come prepared to play a piece of your choice. You may be asked to sight-read and/or play scales. Results are posted no later than 7:00pm. Those interested in joining the Percussion Section or Colorguard should plan to arrive a few days before wind players.

If you would like to be a part of the the 2008 IUP Marching Band, fill out this application. This also pertains to returning members. More information will be mailed to you in July of 2008 upon request. If you have any questions pertaining to the Percussion Section, please call the director, Dr. David Martynuik at (724) 357-7985.

When is Band Camp?

Band Camp begins the day after auditions, August 16th, and lasts until August 24th. We begin at 8am and finish at 10pm. Housing and meals are provided until University meal plans take affect. For those who do not make it and live a good distance away, housing can still be provided but not meals.

Should I bring everything I'll need for the semester to band camp?

Most of the members bring enough for the week and make arrangements to get more at a later time. Thursday night rehearsal is open for all parents, friends, and alumni. This is purely another opportunity to visit, bring more clothes, and observe what the Band has accomplished throughout the week.

Does it cost anything to join the Marching Band?

Instruments are provided for each member. If you need an instrument for the audition, you may sign it out upon arrival for registration. Anyone wishing to use their won personal instrument during the season may do so with the understanding that any repair costs incurred will be your own responsibility. Uniforms are also provided, however, you are responsible for purchasing white marching band shoes and suspenders. Order forms will be available during Band Camp (prices are reasonable). Any uniform parts that are lost during the season must be paid for by the individual.

How do I register for Marching Band?

Everyone involved with the Marching Band must be enrolled in MU125. This course is listed in the scheduling booklet under Music Department. Section 001 is worth one credit and Section 002 is worth zero credit. Please ask your advisor which section would best accommodate your schedule. Registration may be done prior to auditions. We advise you to schedule the course now, despite your uncertainties. The course can be easily dropped from your schedule if the audition is not successful.

Is it advisable to march my Freshman year/How much time is involved?

When classes begin, the Marching Band rehearses Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings from 5pm-7pm. Also, when there is a home football game, the Band rehearses Saturday afternoon from 2pm-4pm. The IUP Marching Band performs at various high school festivals, pro-football games, and other special events. There is no doubt that the schedule is demanding and requires FULL COMMITMENT to all rehearsals and performances. Exceptions such as immediate family weddings or similar situations are to be discussed prior to your audition.

Do these demands interfere with studying and classes?

Well, that's up to the student. The Band consists of 200 members and staff with almost every field of study represented. We find that those students involved in the Marching Band do have a very successful college experience academically and socially. Being involved in an organization with such a high standard and reputation gives the student an opportunity to work with colleagues and mentors in and out of their field. The Band functions under the leadership of the director, Dr. David Martynuik. The experience is valuable and worthwhile. When you're looking into a crowd of thousands of high school students, standing and cheering while you play our traditional rendition of "Amazing Grace", all of the long hours and hard work becomes even more worthwhile. As far as keeping a respectable quality point average, most members find their QPA's higher in the Fall than in the Spring. Hard to believe? Well, when you have a demanding schedule and know that you have an assignment due or an exam to study for, you must accomplish it during what free time you do have. It is up to each individual student. If he/she uses the time wisely, they will have a successful and beneficial experience.