Frequently Asked Questions
Those who have marched in the Panther Marching Band for a few years count their experience in the marching band as one of the most enriching and enjoyable times of their college life. The responsibility and dedication of being in the Panther Marching Band is not easy, but the rewards of camaraderie and lifetime friendships are tremendous. Membership in the Panther Marching Band is a good way to find your ‘niche’ in a large university. Research has shown that new students who are involved in groups such as the Panther Marching Band tend to have a more smooth transition to college life, performing better academically than their peers and feeling more "at home" at their new school than those who opt not to participate in ensembles or student organizations. We believe we are a family, and we want YOU to become a member.
When is Preseason Camp held?
Preseason Camp is traditionally held the week before classes begin in the fall. Attendance at camp is mandatory for all members.
Where does the band rehearse?
Currently, the marching band is housed in the Doudna Fine Arts Center, our new 65 million dollar building, complete with state of the art storage and rehearsal facilities. The PMB rehearses outside at Tarble Field on 9th Street and in O’Brien Stadium.
Does membership in the marching band take a lot of time?
No. In fact, it probably takes much less time than your high school marching band. Marching band is a class that you register for, and we meet during that class time. Rehearsals are held on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM and Saturday mornings prior to home games from 9-10:30am.
What if I have a class conflict with rehearsal?
Band members are asked to schedule all classes outside marching band rehearsal times. In most cases, alternatives to conflicting classes can be found. The main thing to remember is that all conflicts must be approved by our director, Mr. Houser.
What costs are involved with membership in the Panther Marching Band?
Members are expected to purchase the class credit, white gloves ($3), black marching band shoes ($35), various PMB gear/t-shirts ($20), and maintenance of your personal instrument. All other uniform items and travel costs (hotel stay, meals, etc.) are provided free to all members. That's it! And best of all, band members do NO fundraising!
I really enjoyed attending competitions in high school. How many contests does the Panther Marching Band attend?
None. No marching bands compete at the collegiate level. The name of the game here is entertainment. We will perform new shows for each home game, exciting music in the stands and on the field, and have a ton of fun!
Is there an audition for membership in the marching band?
No. Currently, we invite all students interested in membership to be part of the Panther Marching Band. We do have a seating audition for part placement, but this audition does not keep anyone out of the band; it is merely used to help balance the part assignments throughout the group.
What about percussion?
Percussionists can check our website for warm-ups, exercises, cadences, etc. You will be asked to perform material from this packet for your audition, which will help determine your placement within the section. These auditions take place in April. The Panther Marching Band uses snares, tenors, bass drums and cymbals.
What about guard and dance teams?
We have an excellent guard and dance team in the marching band! No prepared routine is required for the guard audition which takes place in the spring. Fundamentals will be stressed including, but not limited to: equipment skills, basics, drop spins, double fast drop spins, and tosses. Bring a standard (6 foot) pole, nylon flag (2 1/2' x 3 1/2' in size). Equipment approximate to this is acceptable. (equipment will be available if you choose). Wear work-out type clothing that allows free movement.
The EIU Pink Panther dance team has been a tradition of EIU since the fall of 1964 and has auditions in the Spring usually mid April. Incoming Freshman and Transfer students accepted and enrolled to EIU are welcomed to audition. Dance experience is required and more details may be found at http://www.eiu.edu/~eiupinks.
What instruments are provided by the University?
We provide piccolos, tenor saxophones, mellophones, baritones, sousaphones, percussion, and guard equipment. Other instruments can be provided on a very limited basis all at no cost to you.
Is there an opportunity for travel?
Yes. The marching band traditionally travels with the full band to 1 or 2 games each year. We also travel to any post-season games the team attends. The Panther Marching Band also enjoys performing in exhibitions at high school band festivals and community/campus events in addition to NFL Games across the Midwest.
Do I receive academic credit for participating in the marching band?
Yes. Marching band is an academic class offered by the Department of Music. All students must register for Marching Band (MUS 202 for 1 credit hour) before classes begin.
Do I have to be a music major to be a member of the marching band?
No. Approximately 50% of the Panther Marching Band is comprised of non-music majors, representing every discipline offered at Eastern. We welcome diversity, and enjoy members who are there because they love making music, and love supporting Eastern!
Are there marching band scholarships available?
No, currently there are not. However, majors and non-majors may audition for scholarships through our Department of Music. To arrange an audition for admission to the Music Department and scholarship consideration, please visit www.eiu.edu/music and click the Audition & Scholarship Application link to the right.
I'm a high school senior. How can I truly experience what it's like to be a member of the Panther Marching Band?
We invite senior band members who are serious about attending Eastern to be our guest at the home football game of their choice. You'll be with us from the moment we step off to the stadium, and we guarantee there is no better way to experience the Panther Marching Band and OVC Football than enjoying it with 10,000 other Panther fans! For more information or to schedule a visit, contact us today!
Do I have to be in a concert band to be in marching band?
No. You may be in marching band or concert band, or both. We highly encourage you to be in marching band in the fall and a concert group in the spring.
What about the Panther Basketball Band?
The basketball band performs at all men's and women’s home basketball games, and travels to tournaments with the teams.
How do I obtain more information?
Contact us today either through phone or email. We would be happy to help you schedule a campus tour, or visit with Mr. Houser to discuss participating in the marching band.
