Thank you for your interest in the band program at The University of Toledo! Whether that interest is in concert or athletic ensembles, jazz band or private lessons, there is a place for you here. This page contains information about the various band ensembles offered at UT, potential scholarship resources for both music majors and non-majors, and frequently-asked questions about the UT Bands. All ensembles are open to any UT student, regardless of major! If you plan to be a music major, however, you will need to audition and be accepted into the Department of Music. For more information about Department of Music and scholarship auditions, consult the Department of Music webpage. If you have any questions about the band ensembles, or would like to schedule a visit, please do not hesitate to contact us by phone or email. We look forward to seeing you on campus very soon!

If you would like your name to be added to our database so we can contact you with more information about your specific area of interest, please take a moment and fill out the online Prospective Member form.

Symphonic Band
MUS-3010-002
Conductor TBA

The Symphonic Band is a large ensemble that performs the standards in the wind band repertoire. The band performs 2-3 concerts per semester. No audition is required. The Symphonic Band is the perfect ensemble for students who wish to continue playing after high school, but don't want the stress of an audition.

Varsity Band
MUS-3010-004
Director TBA

The Varsity Band is the 6th man at all Rocket Basketball games. Supporting the men's and women's teams with an unbridled enthusiasm, the Varsity Band contributes greatly to the electric Savage Hall atmosphere! Auditions are held in the fall for the select 30-piece ensemble. In addition, any member of the Rocket Marching Band is eligible to play with the Varsity Band.

Percussion Ensemble
MUS-3050-081
Jonathan Ovalle, director

The percussion ensemble is comprised of both percussion majors and non-majors. Specializing in the performance of high-quality, challenging percussion literature, the ensemble performs several times throughout the school year.

Classical Guitar Ensemble
MUS-3050-036

The UT Classical Guitar ensemble is a performing group consisting of classical guitar duos, trios, and quartets. The ensemble performs on recitals, at University functions, and at area schools. Membership is open to any student, regardless of major, and is subject to audition. For more information, contact the Music Department.

Scholarships are available to any qualified students through audition. Both music majors and non-majors are candidates for music scholarships. Students may receive scholarship assistance by playing in selected ensembles and studying privately. These scholarships are awarded based on the applicant's ability and departmental needs. Click here to download the Scholarship Information, which includes audition dates and more information about additional scholarship opportunities.

We're currently putting together a list of questions we regularly receive. If you have a question that does not appear below, please send us an e-mail, and we'll be sure to respond right away!

Questions regarding the Rocket Marching Band:

Q:  Will I have enough time to participate in marching band as a freshman?

A:  Yes! The band rehearses Tuesdays through Fridays for two hours each day. Besides game days, there are very few extra commitments. Also, because of class scheduling, it tends to be easier to fit marching band into your schedule as a freshman. Scheduling marching band first and then fitting classes in around it seems to have worked well for many students.

Q:  Do I need to be a music major to be in the band?

A:  No! In fact, only about 10% of the band are music majors. The rest are students with majors which run the gamut from Art to Geology, and History to Social Work. Traditionally, the largest percentage of students come from the College of Engineering and the College of Pharmacy.

Q:  Do I need to audition to get into the band?

A:  Auditions are required for the Drum line, Color Guard, Feature Twirler, and the Dancing Rock-ets. No audition is required for woodwind and brass players.

Q:  What does it cost to be in the band?

A:  The costs of participating in marching band are minimal. In fact, most students pay more for books for a single class than they pay for marching band supplies. Students must be enrolled in MUS-3010-001 for 1 SH, for which there is a course fee of $28.60. Students are also responsible for the cost of basic supplies (shoes, gloves, lyre/flip folder). Members of the Color Guard and Dancing Rock-ets have additional costs associated with those auxiliary units. To help offset these costs, members of the Rocket Marching Band receive a stipend. First-year members receive $200. This amount increases $100 each additional year, up to a total of $500 for 4^th-year members and above.

Q:  Is there a band camp? Where will I stay during band camp?

A:  Band camp takes place approximately 1 ½ weeks ahead of the first day of classes. If you will be living in the residence halls, you will be able to move into your room early. The cost of the early move-in is paid for by the University Bands.

Q:  What style of marching does the Rocket Marching Band use?

A:  The Rocket Marching Band uses a roll-step technique.

Q:  What types of music does the Rocket Marching Band perform?

A:  The pre-game show is the same every game, and includes many traditional school songs. Halftime shows feature a wide range of musical styles and genres, from Latin to Jazz, Classical to Rock, and everything in between.

Q:  What percussion instruments are in the Rocket Marching Band?

A:  The band marches snares, tenors, basses, and cymbals. There is no pit. The snare line uses traditional grip.