Who can join?
Any student at UM who has had high school band, colorguard or dance experience is welcome in the “Band of the Hour” Marching Band regardless of major. In addition, students who attend Miami Dade Community College or Broward County Community College are also eligible to enroll. Many people are surprised to hear that the majority of our members are in majors other than music.

Do I have to audition?
Auditions are held for Dancers, Colorguard and Percussion. Auditions for Winds are for part-placement only. Ninety-nine percent of the students who audition are accepted into the Band of the Hour. The worst thing that can happen is you get to meet hundreds of other 'Canes before classes begin!

Something this fun must cost a lot of money, right?
The Band of the Hour is a one-credit course available to any UM student. Your only expense will be a non-refundable band fee of $30-$100 (depending on instrument) that covers shoes, T-shirt and uniform cleaning as well as all our fun activities for the year. The University and the Band of the Hour picks up the tab for housing and meals during camp, uniforms, music, and band travel shirts. Travel to any away games and bowl trips is 100% expense-free, and best of all, we do absolutely NO fundraising! The balance of your contribution will be hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm.

Are there scholarships available?
Beginning this year, full time UM students in the marching band will receive their textbooks for FREE courtesy of the University. In addition, students in their 2nd, 3rd, and 4th year of marching band receive participation stipends of up to $300.00.

I've heard that marching band takes up a lot of time...
Actually, it takes up less time than you think. Our rehearsals during the semester are scheduled Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 4:00 to 6:00 pm and selected Saturday mornings on Game Days. Band camp is the most intense but also contains a lot of fun social activities to kick off the season and is our chance to get to know one another.

What is the attendance policy?
Marching band is a one-credit course offered through the university. Attendance at all rehearsals and performances until the end of the football season is required.

Will the Band Credit count towards my degree?
In many cases you may utilize the marching band course for an arts and humanities credit. Be sure to check with your advisor!

When does band start and end?
The season begins with band camp (about one week before the start of classes), and extends through the end of the fall semester. In addition there is usually a Bowl Game in Late Dec. or early Jan.

Okay, so how do I join?
Contact the band office at (305) 284-4273 or e-mail us at cdamon@miami.edu to let us know of your interest and when you register for fall classes at UM, include Marching Band, listed under "MIP 170," as one of your classes. Then get ready for the time of your life.