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Marching Colonels Frequently Asked Questions

Why join the Marching Colonels?

College marching band is an exciting experience very different from high school, and your first semester will prove it! The Marching Colonels offers EKU students a social experience unlike any other on campus, and finding life-long friends is just the beginning. Unlike the high school experience, the Marching Colonels perform several shows each season, and typically in half the rehearsal time.

And what about college life? The Marching Colonels are at the center of football game day activities and enjoy loyal support from Colonel fans at every home game. If you aren’t sure, try it your first semester and find out.

Top 10 Reasons to Join the Marching Colonels

10. Traditions! The Marching Colonels are one of the oldest and time-honored groups on campus.
9. Half the rehearsals, twice the fun
8. Beat the rush. Early dorm move-in
7. Pregame Tailgate Performances
6. Earn $2,000 in scholarships to watch four years of football
5. Great music, great shows
4. Crazy Colonel spirit
3. No fundraising, ever!
2. 100 new friends before classes start
1. One word: Byawww!

Will I have time for marching band?

The short answer is YES! The Marching Colonels rehearse much less than most high schools. The class meets in the late afternoons Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and we have continuity rehearsal on home football game days. You will have more than enough time for other activities and academics. Marching Colonel members traditionally rank very high in every academic discipline.

What is the 2023 performance schedule? 

We perform at all home games, a few other on campus events and rallies, and travel as requested by the University. 

  • August 10 – Big E Welcome & Turner Gate Walk
  • August 26 – Football Fan Day (Scrimmage)
  • September 9 – Exhibition @ Madison Southern High School
  • September 16 – Home Game
  • September 23- Home Game
  • October 12 – Homecoming Colonel Corn Roast (Thursday Evening)
  • October 13 – Homecoming Parade (Friday evening)
  • October 14 – Home Game (Homecoming)
  • November 4 – Home Game (Veteran’s Appreciation Day)
  • November 18 – Home Game (Marching Colonel for a Day)
  • November 25-26 – ASUN/WAC Championship (possible travel)
  • November 27 – Marching Colonels Banquet (Monday evening)

Do I have to be a music major?

No! The Marching Colonels is open to any EKU student in good standing, regardless of major. In fact, over 65% of the band are non-music majors. We encourage all enthusiastic student musicians and artists to join, regardless of their academic choice.

Do I have to audition?

No! There is no audition for the marching band. If you have participated in band in high school, you are eligible and encouraged to participate in the Marching Colonels. Even if you did not march in high school, we have a place for you! There are placement auditions for the drumline at the beginning of band camp. Check out our Visual Teams page for Color Guard, Maroonettes, and Feature Twirlers information. 

How much does it cost?

There are no up front costs to being a Marching Colonel, except purchasing a pair of marching shoes (<$40). Actually, you earn scholarships by participating!

What does the band provide?

  1. Official Marching Colonels gear: sackpack, cap/visor, water bottle
  2. Uniform for performances (Colorguard, Maroonettes, winds, and percussion)
  3. Food and drinks at every game
  4. ALL travel expenses. Students are only responsible for spending money when traveling with the band. That includes post-season travel!

How do I join?

  1. Enroll in MUS 256 (CRN: 10118). The course meets Monday, Wednesday, and Friday (4:40-6:40pm) during the fall semester.
  2. Complete the Member Registration Form.
  3. Continue to check the website, Blackboard, and your EKU email address often.

And you’re in … we’ll see you in the fall!

When do we move in?

Marching Colonels students move into the dorms early for free. 2023 move-in date for the entire band is Sunday, August 6, 2023. If you are coming from far away, we can work with you. Check out the Preseason Band Camp Schedule-at-a-Glance for more details.

School of Music


521 Lancaster Avenue
Foster 101
Richmond, KY 40475
Phone: 859-622-3161

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