Frequently Asked Questions

We are planning a normal season while following the guidelines/protocols of the CDC and Shippensburg University. All members and staff are high encouraged to get vaccinated to help us continue to perform. Updates are conveyed as necessary.

The SUMB includes Flute/Piccolos, Clarinets, Alto Saxophones, Mellophones, Trumpets, Low Brass (Tenor and Bari Saxophone, Trombones, Baritones, and Tubas), Drumline, Front Ensemble, Color Guard and Majorettes.

Wind Players - No audition but previous experience is required. You may audition for part placement during band camp. Drumline - Are held mid/late May. Color Guard & Majorette - Are held mid/late April. Pit - No audition, but previous experience required.

The SUMB features a wide variety of skill levels and experience. We welcome any member regardless of prior experience.

The student must complete an online absence excuse form at least 1 week prior to the absence. Details will be explained during band camp.

Students are able to take the SUMB as a class for 1 credit, but it is not required for membership. One season counts as 1 credit, and 3 credits can be applied towards graduation as a free elective and towards the Music Minor (if applicable).

Weekly rehearsals are Tuesdays, Thursdays, and sometimes Fridays (on performance weekends) from 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM. Each section has their own one-hour rehearsal once a week and at day and time is decided by the group. We also rehearse Saturday mornings before home football games.

Weekly rehearsals take place on our practice football field, in Seth Grove Stadium and in the Luhrs Performing Arts Center as needed.

Thankfully, SUMB rehearsals take place during a period when there are no classes. Students are allowed to schedule classes from 2:00 PM-3:15 PM TR before rehearsals start. Only extenuating circumstances for 5:00 PM classes will be considered. Contact TRFamu@ship.edu with any questions or concerns.

There is a fee per student for their uniform and equipment - if the uniform stays in good condition, they receive a portion of the money back. You also need to pay for the official SUMB shirts and have the option to buy additional items. More information will be sent in the summer mailings.

Some of the larger instruments are available to use: Tuba, Baritone, Mellophone, Bari Sax and Tenor Sax. If a student is in need of an instrument not listed, please contact Director Trever Famulare TRFamu@ship.edu

The SUMB performs at all SU home football games. Rehearsal take place from 9:25 AM-11:00 AM, then report to the loading dock after lunch for march-over. We perform at tailgate, then march our pregame show for the start of the football game. Depending on the day, we perform our show at halftime or postgame.

We travel to Allentown for the Annual Collegiate Marching Band Festival each year and perform at various exhibitions and away games throughout the season. Every 4 years, the SUMB plans to travel internationally. We travelled to Ireland in 2014, Italy in 2018, and plan to travel to Prague in 2023!

Band camp begins two weeks prior to the start of classes. We also have mini camps two or three times prior to camp.

Learning the halftime show drill and music, along with fun socials and activities!

What to wear: Dress with respect to the weather outside. Comfortable sneakers, sunscreen, a hat or visor and sunglasses. What to take: Instrument, instrument case, lyre, pencil, water bottle (water is supplied). You'll receive flip folders/music, field markers, and coordinates when you arrive.

There is no need to be nervous! Everyone in the SUMB was a freshman/rookie once, and we want you to be successful. During the summer, you'll receive mailings breaking down band camp and the rest of the season. All freshmen/rookies are also assigned a "Big", which is an experienced band member who can help you with anything you need. Don't be afraid to ask questions! Keep a good attitude, work hard, and have fun!

The SUMB makes sure that freshmen can attend as many events as they can, and we will be flexible with you if you are required to attend any meetings.

The SU Music Department offers a full range of courses, a Theater Minor, and a Music Minor. There is a wide variety of musical groups which include: Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, Pep Band, Brass Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, Flute Choir, Clarinet Choir and Saxophone Choir.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Other music groups include: Concert Choir, Madrigal Singers, Orchestra, and String Ensemble

Student leadership positions include: Cabinet (President, Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary), Drum Majors, Crews (Librarian, Quartermaster, Public Relations, Instrument and Fundraising), and Section Leaders.

We have an active alumni group chat on Facebook, and we welcome our alumni back for any and all performances. Many alumni return to the BAND for Allentown weekend and Homecoming. Please contact our Vice President Aidian Piper at ap8053@ship.edu or Meriah Swope at meriahrae@yahoo.com for more information.

Our roadies assist at all SUMB rehearsals, games, and performances. They refill water bottles, care for injuries, and carry out tasks as needed. Roadies can be students or alumni, but students who can play and march are highly encouraged to participate on the field.