No. 60% of our members are non-music majors with over 30 different majors and every college represented in Blazin’ Brigade.

Collegiate marching band at a major university level is different from high school. Not better and not worse, just different. Our rehearsals are fast paced, we play a lot of music, and we perform at least three different shows in a season.

Blazin’ Brigade is an ensemble course and all members must register for MUSC 3880. We rehearse six hours a week during our regular class time (MW 4:00-5:50 PM, F 3:00-4:50 PM). If we have a home game, we have stadium rehearsals on the morning of the game.

 

Yes. The myth that band takes up your entire life is confusing. We continue to encourage you get involved in your university. We lay out clear ways for our students to ensure any opportunities they want to participate are open to them. It requires organization and good communication on your part.

Beyond the cost to enroll in the marching band class, you only have to pay for required apparel like t-shirt, ball cap, spats, gloves, etc. You can find more information in the summer band packet.

Yes. We are uniformed in every way. Directions on purchasing our required apparel are available when Band Camp information is published each spring. Current and new members will receive additional information as soon as possible.

Yes. Each member of Blazin’ Brigade receives a $350 scholarship.

Blazin' Brigade marches a modified corps style with elements of traditional style in our pregame.

Blazin’ Brigade will travel to 1-3 away games plus all playoff games depending on the success of the football team. The cost of travel is provided by VSU Bands and the university. All travel is required attendance.

Blazin’ Brigade operates on the philosophy that we have a place for everyone who has experience performing in a marching band. There is no limit on the number of students we accept. If you are qualified, we want you to be a part of our band.

Drumline consists of 4-5 snares, 3-4 tenors, 5-7 basses, and front ensemble. Drumline uses traditional grip and audition music is available on April 1. All drumline and front ensemble instruments are provided by the band program.

Guard audition information will be available on April 1.

Blazin' Brigade provides mellophones, trombones, baritones, and Sousaphones. We also have a limited number of piccolos and tenor saxes available. Drumline and front ensemble instruments are also provided by the band program but those students are responsible for their own mallets and sticks (specific brands and models will be communicated at a laater date). No other instruments are provided or available for rent.

We strongly encourage you to audition on your primary instrument.

Blazin' Brigade performs 3-5 shows a season with music from a variety of genres. We have performed current Top 40 music, 80's music, rock, blues, and a variety of other genres.

There are multiple leadership opportunities for Blazin' Brigade members:

  • Drum majors who lead the band musically
  • Section leaders focus on sectionals and marching instruction
  • Captains for guard and drumline who focus on music instruction
  • Three undergraduate staff members who focus on marching band instruction and are responsible for logistical operations of the band
  • Social Media Team is responsible for photography, videos, and communications across all our social media channels
  • Library Team focuses on getting music organized and distributed to the band
  • Tau Beta Sigma

If you have additional questions, please let us know!

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