Do you have questions about The Sprirt of the Old Gold and Black?
Here are some questions that current members thought were important.

1. What is the time commitment for Marching Band?

   The time commitment for being a member of the Marching Band is very managable. Members are required to attend rehearsals, games, and other performances. The band plays at many field hockey and vollyball games, ceremonies during Freshman Orientation, the Homecoming Bonfire, any Bowl game, and other opportunities during the year.

2. How often are rehearsals held?

   Rehearsals are held twice a week during Football season and once a week during Basketball season. Depending on how prepared the Band is for a specific performance, game, or pep rally, rehearsals might be shortened or extended. Changes in rehearsal times are known days in advance.

3. Will I have time to join other organizations?

   Absolutely. Many, if not all, Band members are involved in other areas around campus including greek life, honor societies, music ensembles, student government, volunteering, and off campus organizations to name a few.

4. Won't my academics suffer if I join Marching Band?

   Most band members would agree that like with any extra curricular activity it is very important to manage time. Every member is allowed one absence for an academic reason. Dr, Bowen and Mr. Morgan know how important academics are at Wake Forest and give students many opportunities to get homework done before and after rehearsals, performances, and games. Many students say that Marching Band rehearsals are a great way to escape the academic world of Wake for a few hours.

5. Does the Band travel to away games?

   Yes. But the number of away games and where the band travels depends on the football schedule for the year. This year the band traveled to Duke University, Clemson University, and University of Virginia. Each member was required to travel to Duke and then had the choice of one of the other two games. The entire band traveled to the Meineke Car Care Bowl in Charlotte, North Carolina.

6. Is there a Band Camp?

   Yes. Band Camp is the full week before classes start. Band Camp starts on Sunday and runs all day through Thursday. Freshman are able to leave Band Camp to attend any Orientation meetings that might create a conflict.

7. When are color guard try-outs?

   Right night there are no color gurad try-outs.

8. If I join Marching Band, will I receive academic credit?

   Yes. If you register for MUS 128 and fulfill all requirements Dr. B and Mr. Morgan have set at the beginning of the semester you will receive academic credit.

9. Can I be in a sorority or fraternity and still be in band?

   Most definately. There are three sororities and three fraternities represented in the Spririt of the Old Gold and Black.

10. Do I get paid to be in Band?

    All third and fourth year Marching Band members receive a stipend for being in the band. Some years second year members are also paid.

11. If the band travels, do I have to pay for my own expenses?

    Every member is given money to take care of meals while at an away game. Travel expenses might also be taken care of.

12. Can I still be pre-med/pre-law and still be in band?

    Yes. There are many students in the Spirit of the Old Gold and Black who are pre-medicine and pre-law. These students find lots of time to complete their academic obligations while still being loyal to the band.

13. Is it possible for me to receive a scholarship if I join Marching Band?

    The only music scholarship is the Presidental Scholarship. But third and fourth year members do receive a nice amount of money (at least to cover books).