Posted by Matt G on August 01, 2002 at 13:50:38:
In Reply to: college marching bands posted by Pat on August 01, 2002 at 07:50:54:
I will second the following of the Football program for a good starting point. Look at any school in a NCAA class 1A division. Then eliminate the private schools after examining their tuition rates. Also, not all public schools are all that cheap either. To go as low cost as possible, stay in state to avoid out of state tuition fees. A "good" marching ensemble is usually indicative of a decent music program. An excellent marching program is usually indicitive of a good band director. However, all of this is related to recruiting. The best programs attract students who love marching band. Also, don't target the biggest marching program; they aren't neccesarily the best. Be aware, a college marching program can require 20 hours a week of your time. That is a lot of dedication when if the tuition is only circa $1K per semester you can easily work a part time job for the same amount of time and pay for the tuition yourself.
Most important:
College marching programs are nothing like the average high school program. You may be learning a new show every week or two. However, marching band is a much more social environment than it is even in high school. Most of the schools will have a lot of partying associated and it will be a good way to meet new people in college. The balancing of this with your normal courseload and any other possible music activities will be the key to one's success throughout college.
Matt G