Prospective Member Information - Panther Marching Band
Please read our FAQs for more information
General Information
Rehearsals
Band rehearsals are scheduled on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings from 4 to 6 PM. Rehearsals on game days run from 9-10:30 AM. Game day rehearsals are held on O'Brien Field in the Stadium. These rehearsals provide an enjoyable change of pace with minimal time involvement for the busy college student. No "extra" rehearsals are scheduled. Panther Marching Band (MUS 202) earns one college credit per semester. This credit may be used as an elective in any degree program.
Pre-Season Week
"Pre-Season Week" (as EIU's band camp is called) is held a week before classes begin and includes extensive training in marching and playing at the college level. In addition to regular rehearsals, there are lots of social activities planned throughout the week to give students a chance to relax and meet new friends! Those students who have been assigned a dorm room can move into their room during this period at no charge. The band provides most meals. The band's early arrival on campus provides each individual an opportunity to get settled in the residence halls, rent books, make over 150 new friends, and adjust to a new environment and a new independence before classes begin.
Wind Auditions
Currently, there are no auditions for woodwinds and brass.
Percussion Auditions
The drum line is selected by audition during the month of April after several clinics have taken place. Appropriate numbers of snares, tenors, bass drums, and cymbals are selected for a total of approximately 20-25 members. You may contact Matt Black, percussion instructor, for more information.
Guard & Pink Panther Dance Team Auditions
The Color Guard & Pink Panthers are selected during special auditions in April and May. Persons interested in the auditions should phone the Band Office at (217) 581-6087 or send an email to have their names included on these specialized mailing lists.
Travel
The band travels with the full band to one away game each year. In addition, The Panther Marching Band has recently traveled in-state, to Tennessee, Indianapolis, and to several professional football games. Travel expenses such as lodging, transportation, and meals are provided by Eastern Illinois University - there is no cost to the band members.
Student Honors
Members of the Panther Marching Band have been selected as members of the Colts Drum & Bugle Corps, The Cavaliers, as well as several other prestigious organizations.
Cost
Eastern Illinois University provides financial support for the band. There is generally no expense for being in the band except for the purchase of a band t-shirt, black shorts, band cap, uniform shoes, flip folder, lyre, and optional purchases such as a band jacket, polo shirts, sweat pants, and decals. (Color guard may have other specialized equipment needs.) Band members do not do any type of fundraising.
Drum Majors and Student Leadership Staff
Drum Majors and Student Leadership staff are selected at the end of the fall season from the ranks of the Panther Marching Band. Selection is based on experience, rehearsal discipline, conducting ability, personality, and leadership potential. Freshmen and new members of the marching band are eligible to try out for these positions after completing one year in the PMB.
Service Organizations
The honorary band sorority, Tau Beta Sigma, and band fraternity, Kappa Kappa Psi, are very active throughout the year providing special service to the band and supporting its needs.
Do you have other questions about the Panther Marching Band?
Please visit our Frequently Asked Questions page to find more information about the PMB. Still have questions? E-mail R. Alan Sullivan, Director of the Panther Marching Band.
If you are planning to audition for the PMB...
Let us know to expect you. Complete our Pre-Season Camp Form now.
