Frequently Asked Questions of the UC Bearcat Bands

1. How much time do I have to commit to be in the UC Bearcat Bands
 

The UC Bearcat Bands practice three nights a week from 6:30pm to 8:30pm during the Autumn Quarter. Performances are usually on Saturdays at home football games. Please check the calender for camp schedules.
 

2. I'm in CCM. Can I still be in the band?
 

Yes! The time committment for the band is very small. Everyone is welcome in the UC Bearcat Bands.
 

3. I'm not a music major. Can I still be in the band?
 

The UC Bearcat Bands are open to all colleges. Whether you are an engineer, a business major, a music major, or in arts and sciences, there is a place for you in the UC Becarcat Bands.
 

4. I don't know if I'll have enough time my freshman year. Shouldn't I wait and see how it goes before joining?
 

NO! This is a very common freshman concern. The truth is that your freshman year is when you will have the MOST free-time, so it is the BEST time for you to join student organizations like the band. Plus, since the band begins rehearsals before school starts, you'll have the chance to get familiar with campus before everyone else!
 

5. Why do you call yourselves the UC Bearcat Bands?
 

The organization is expressed in the plural (Bands) because the band itself takes on several different forms depending on the quarter of the school year. During the fall, the band's time and energy is solely dedicated to the Marching Band.

As the end of fall approaches, the Marching Band is split into two bands. These two bands will for all home Men's and Women's basketball games. Periodically, a travel band will be chosen to accompany the team on an out-of-town game. Since the Varsity Band (or Pep Band) is in such demand, only Marching Band members are allowed a spot in this band. Once Winter quarter begins, the band rehearses regularly to cover music played during the basketball games. In addition, many other auxilliary groups, such as Winter Drumline and Winter Guard, will begin to practice. Every member of the Varsity Band will get assigned, if willing, to either a conference tournament game, or an NCAA tournament game during March.

Once Spring rolls around, the Bearcat Bands finally take a seat — a concert seat that is. During the Spring, the Bearcat Band is a Concert Band playing mostly classical pieces. However, a Jazz Band is also formed for those who wish to be more casual.
 

6. I live out of town and I can't move into the dorms until after mini-camps. What can I do?
 

Contact Uko Nwa and he will find you a place to stay during the mini-camps and before the dorms open.
 

7. How much does it cost to be part of the UC Bearcat Bands?
 

The cost to be in the band is very minimal. At the beginning of the year, $45 in dues is collected from each member of the band. Also, you are asked to provide your own marching shoes (black dinkles) and black socks. All other parts of the uniform will be provided for you, as well as all music that is needed. All transportation and accomodations when traveling with the band is paid.
 

8. If I have any more questions, who should I contact?
 

Contact Elyse Lohrbach, or email information@ucband.uc.edu, or fill out our recuitment form, and we will be more then happy to answer any questions you may have.