AU Pep Band - Frequently Asked Questions

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 Pep Band Group

Q: Do I have to be a music major to be in the AU Pep Band?
A: No. We appreciate and love the music majors who do join us; however, about 90% of the band is majoring in something other than music!

Q: Can I take Pep Band for academic credit?
A: Indeed, you can! The course number is PERF-150-001. The AU Pep Band is one credit and can be taken multiple times.

Q: Are there auditions?
A: The AU Pep Band does not have formal auditions and experienced musicians are never turned away. We hold a general meeting each semester which serves as a chance for you to meet us, play through a few charts, and decide if the band is right for you. This meeting is held on the first Thursday of each term at 5:30 PM in the Katzen Arts Center Room #151.

Q: What instruments are in the band?
A: Piccolo - Flute - Clarinet - Bass Clarinet - Alto, Tenor, Bari Sax - Mellophone - Trumpet - Trombone - Baritone - Sousaphone - Drum Set - Electric Brass - Electric Guitar

Q: If I don't have my own instrument, can I still participate?
A: The school owns many instruments including mellophones, sousaphones, the drum set, bass clarinets, baritone and tenor saxophones, a few trombones, and more.  Send us an email and we will check instrument availability.  If you need an instrument, and we have it in our inventory, it is free to use.  

Q: Does the AU Pep Band travel?
A: Yes! We typically travel once a year. Here is a selective list of some recent road trips the band has been on:

2018:  Los Angeles, CA - NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament Round #1

2014:  Madison, WI – NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament Round #1

2013:  Durham, NC – NCAA Women’s Volleyball Tournament Round #1

2009:  Philadelphia, PA – Men’s Basketball Tournament Round #1

2008:  Birmingham, AL – NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament Round #1

2007:  Worcester, MA – Patriot League Men’s Basketball Finals

Did we mention that transportation and food are typically free for band members during road trips?

Q: Can I be in multiple music groups at AU?
A: Of course you can.  Many members of the band choose to be in the Symphonic Band, Jazz Orchestra, or take private lessons. You can learn more at the AU Music homepage: http://www.american.edu/cas/performing-arts/opportunities/index.cfm   

Q: Does the Pep Band perform at any community events?
A: The AU Pep Band has a significant music presence in the DC area. Here is a short list of events we performed at recently:

2017:  Washington, DC – 43rd Marine Corp Marathon

2016:  Washington, DC – 42nd Marine Corp Marathon

2015:  Washington, DC – 41st Marine Corp Marathon

2014:  Washington, DC – 40th Marine Corp Marathon

2014:  Washington, DC – Wizards Basketball

2013:  86th National Cherry Blossom Festival

2013:  Washington, DC – 39th Marine Corp Marathon

2013:  Washington, DC – Wizards Basketball

2012:  Washington, DC – 38th Marine Corp Marathon

2012:  85th National Cheery Blossom Festival

Pep Band Tuba