Part Selections/Auditions

DRUMLINE

The MMB Drumline consists of a battery of 5 snares, 3 tenors, and 5 basses. Newcomers should be aware that with so many returning battery members auditions will most likely be necessary. Over the summer, audition material will be sent to you based on what you indicate in the “Band Camp Registration Form” as your preferred instrument(s). Auditions will take place at the opening of O-Week (see “O-Week Band Camp Schedule”) with results announced later that day. Those not earning a spot on the battery will be given the option of either joining the front ensemble or helping us form a NEW marching cymbal line. I understand that being asked to play an instrument other than your preferred one is not optimal.

TUBAS (CONTRAS)

Just as with our battery, we have a limited number of marching tubas (we march contras, not sousaphones) available which may necessitate an audition. Over the summer, audition material will be sent to you with auditions taking place at the opening of O-Week (see “O-Week Band Camp Schedule”). Results will be announced later that day. For new members, if you have experience and/or are willing to play a different instrument this season such as marching baritone or trombone, we would greatly appreciate you doing so.

ALL NEW MEMBERS

It’s to your advantage to arrive in good playing shape this fall. For the other instruments not listed above there are no formal auditions. Your Section Leader will assign parts in consultation with the Director.

I understand the change that comes with joining a new band. If you came from a program in which you were the lead player, you may be asked to play a 2^nd or 3^rd part for the first time in a while. Know that this is for the good of the band and to ensure that all parts are covered adequately. For those who do need to audition know that I appreciate willingness to go through the process. Those of you who volunteer to switch to a different instrument or do not earn an audition spot, I understand the frustration of not getting to play your preferred instrument. I always try to get you on your preferred instrument as soon as possible, but it may take some time. Thank you for your understanding.

Uniforms

Full Uniform
During O-Week we'll fit you for a marching uniform (see “O-Week Band Camp Schedule”). Your uniform will be placed in a garment bag and kept in the uniform closet when not in use (140 Castleman Hall). The rest of the full uniform includes white long-wrist gloves, black socks, and black marching shoes.

At the beginning of the season you'll receive one pair of gloves for free. While these gloves are easy to maintain and are machine washable, it may be necessary to replace them during the season. A second pair will be provided at no cost as long as you show need for them. Piccolo and clarinet players will receive a pair of one-size-fits-all fingerless gloves (one replacement pair available if needed) and Color Guard members will receive a pair of guard gloves (replacements must be paid for by the student). Percussionists do not need gloves.

The only part of your uniform we DO NOT provide is black socks and black marching shoes. If you currently own a pair of flat black (not patent leather) marching shoes, you can use those as long as they're in good condition. If you don't own a pair, you'll need to get them before the first game (Aug. 31). 

Summer Uniform

If it’s determined to be too hot or a performance does not require the full uniform, you’ll be asked to wear our summer uniform. The summer uniform consists of an official Miner Marching Band T-shirt and cap both of which will be provided at no cost (Color Guard does not wear caps for the summer uniform, but are free to have one). The rest of the uniform consists of khaki shorts (light to medium khaki please, not brown, olive or white) white socks and tennis shoes appropriate to march in.

O-Week Band Camp Schedule

Contact Dr. Samson if you're unable to attend camp or have conflicts with the schedule. 

The Band Room is located in 137 Castleman Hall. The Castleman Green is just outside the band room on the corner of 10th and State St. The practice field is on the far south edge of the athletic fields between the baseball, softball, and soccer game fields. Returning members can help get you to where you need to be. 

FRESHMAN: Provided that you’ve fill out the “Band Camp Registration Form” by mid-July, you will be placed in an O-Week team with other marching band students. During most of your scheduled “Project X” times, you’ll be joining us for rehearsals. If you sign up for camp too late or for some reason do not get assigned a band O-Week team, DON’T PANIC. We’ll get you involved.

Monday, August 14

Time TBA:  Leadership Team Retreat/Cookout

Tuesday, August 15

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Band Room – Drumline and Contra Auditions. Those auditioning will be contacted over the summer as asked to sign up for a 10-minute audition time that works with your move-in schedule. Leadership Team Workday.
2-3:30 p.m. Band Room – Leadership Meeting
7-8:30 p.m. Castleman Green – Ice Cream Social sponsored by Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma.

Wednesday, August 16

8:15-9:45 a.m. Castleman Green – MUSIC Rehearsal
9:45 a.m.-12 p.m. Castleman Hall – Uniform Checkout:  Returning Seniors and all Drumline
12-2:15 p.m. Castleman Hall – Uniform Checkout:  Returning Juniors and Sophomores
2:15-3:45 p.m. Castleman Hall – Uniform Checkout: All New Members
3:45-5:15 p.m. Castleman Green – MUSIC Rehearsal (continue New Member Uniform Checkout)
7-8:30 p.m. Practice Field – MARCHING Rehearsal (w/ instruments)
8:30-10 p.m. TBA – Chapter Social Event #1

What to Bring to Camp (and Beyond)

Marching Band is physically demanding, so please bring clothing appropriate for the weather, especially a good pair of athletic shoes. As you prepare for camp, remember the following:

Water – We provide water jugs during outdoor rehearsals, but it’s good to have your own too.
Hat – To shield your head and face from the sun. This is especially important if you’re bald like Dr. Samson.
Closed-toed shoes – We don’t march in sandals.
Sunscreen – Most of our rehearsals (including music rehearsals) are outdoors. Protect your skin.

Marching Band Performance Schedule

All performances of the Marching Band are REQUIRED of all members unless noted as “all available members.” Please get these dates on your calendar now so that there is no confusion as to what’s required of you. If you see an issue with attending any of these performances, contact Dr. Samson as soon as you become aware.  

NOTE:  The times listed for games are KICKOFF times and those for parades are PARADE START times. “Call Times” will be given well in advance of each event and may be as many as 1-2 hours before the times listed.

Friday, Aug. 25
12 p.m. | Minerrama | Meet at Castleman Hall for march over (all available members)

Thursday, Aug. 31
6 p.m. | Miners vs. Delta State | Allgood-Bailey Stadium

Saturday, Sept. 23
6 p.m. | Miners vs. Wayne State |Allgood-Bailey Stadium

Saturday, Sept. 30
11 a.m. | Parade of Nations | Downtown Rolla
6 p.m. | Miners vs. U Indy | Allgood-Bailey Stadium

Saturday, Oct. 7
6 p.m. | Miners vs. Upper Iowa | Allgood-Bailey Stadium (all available members)

Friday, Oct. 27 (possible, but please reserve on your schedule)
TBA | Pep Rally | TBA

Saturday, Oct. 28
1 p.m. | Miners vs. William Jewell (Homecoming) | Allgood-Bailey Stadium

Saturday, Nov. 11
1 p.m. | Miners vs. Truman State (Senior Day) | Allgood-Bailey Stadium

Saturday, Dec. 2
10 a.m. | Rolla Christmas Parade | Downtown Rolla