Concert Band Auditions

Audition Policy

Woodwind, Brass, and Percussion (WBP) ensemble placement auditions are held the first week of classes in the fall and spring semesters. Auditions are required for placement in Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, and Symphony Orchestra.  Audition sign-ups are posted outside of the band office, 124 Murphy Hall, one week prior to the start of classes.  Auditions consist of the required excerpts (download below) and sight-reading.  Students should refer to the specific requirements of their degree plan for clarification of ensemble participation.  

All WBP scholarship recipients are required to audition and be available to play in Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, or Symphony Orchestra. Students are expected to keep their schedules completely conflict-free until after the audition results have been posted. Any WBP undergraduate or master’s degree student who is enrolled in applied lessons on their instrument must audition for ensemble placement.  

Auditions required for placement

UPDATED for Spring 2026!

Wind Ensemble

• BAND 402/702 - MWF 2:00-3:50 in 130 Murphy (Dr. Popiel & Dr. Smith, conductors)

Wind Symphony

• BAND 403/703 - MWF 2:00-3:50 in 118 Murphy (Dr. Smith & Dr. Sawyer, conductors)

Symphonic Band

• BAND 404/704 - T/H 3:30-5:20 in 118 Murphy (Dr. Sawyer, conductor)

Symphony Orchestra

• ORCH 400/700 - T/H 3:30pm-6:20pm in 130 Murphy (Professor Herron, Conductor)

University Band, available with or without audition

• BAND 406/706 - T/H 6:00-7:20 in 118 Murphy (Professor Toulouse, conductor)

Audition Schedule

Audition sign-up will be at the Band Office, 124 Murphy Hall, by mid-November. Rehearsals begin Monday, January 26, for Wind Ensemble and Wind Symphony and Tuesday, January 27, for Symphonic Band, Symphony Orchestra (WBP) and University Band.

Audition Excerpts