MSU Bands

Spirit of the West Marching Band

MUSI 155 MWF 2:10PM - 4:00PM

The SOTW fills a unique role on campus at MSU. Not only does the band perform at all MSU home football games in the newly expanded stadium, we also participate in many events around the school and the city of Bozeman. All student members of the SOTW receive a scholarship for playing in the band. While previous marching experience is desirable, it is not essential. Band camp begins one week prior to the start of the fall semester and is required of all members. Please contact the Director of Bands if you have a conflict.

Wind Symphony

MUSI 314 TR 4:25PM - 6:15PM

This ensemble is intended for those students who are most serious about performance proficiency on their instrument. Music majors may use this ensemble to fulfill large ensemble requirements. The repertoire is selected from the growing body of advance literature for wind band.

Audition Information

The Wind Symphony is intended for those students who are most serious about performance proficiency on their instrument.

All members of the Wind Symphony must audition for Dr. Stark. Please sign-up for at time on the bulletin board by the front office. Students who are not accepted into the group, but would like to be considered in the future, should plan on playing in University Band.

Requirements

• Two Major scales of Dr. Stark's choosing at the time of the audition (up to 3 sharps and 4 flats) - preferably 2 octaves in 16th notes. You may use music during the audition.
• Chromatic scale - preferably 3 octaves
• 1-minute piece of your choosing. Don't play something too hard! It is more important to sound good and be musical.
• Possible excerpts from upcoming band music OR sight reading - details/measure numbers will be provided at our first rehearsal.

University Band

MUSI 114 MWF 12:00PM - 12:50PM

University Band is a great ensemble for those students who want to keep playing in college. The group is non-auditioned, and is made-up of a mix of academic majors from all around campus. Music majors who are not accepted into Wind Symphony may use this ensemble to fulfill large ensemble requirements. The music is selected from a combination of the standard wind band repertoire and the most popular/fun band pieces. Our first concert may include: Gavorkna Fanfare and music from Carmina Burana.