FSU BANDS have a long and distinguished history, appearing frequently at regional and national conferences. Their performances have been praised by such leading figures as Aaron Copland, Karel Husa, Vincent Persichetti, Gordon Jacob, Fisher Tull, Clare Grundman, Leslie Bassett, Morton Gould, Frederick Fennell, Per Lyng, Keith Brion, Timothy Renish, Steve Stucky, David Maslanka, William Penn, and Samuel Adler. The bands can be heard on nationally distributed Golden Crest records and Pro Arte CD's and cassettes. They frequently perform world and American premieres and are active in a variety of recording projects and consortia that include such distinguished figures as Robin Holloway, Ellen Taafe Zwillich, Gunther Schuller, Sir Michael Tippett, John Harbison, Fridges Hidas, and Adam Klemens.

THE SYMPHONIC AND CONCERT BANDS maintain an active performance schedule on campus and in the community. The Symphonic Band often represents the College of Music at major professional conferences. Membership is open to all university students by audition and is offered fall and spring semesters.

THE WIND ORCHESTRA is the top graduate wind band. They engage in professional level study of wind literature important to contemporary performing practices. The Wind Orchestra's campus performances are supplemented by periodic tours, selected artist concert series, conventions, and conference appearances. All performers rotate in the assignment of parts, and all serve as principals. (Richard Clary, Conductor)

THE FLORIDA STATE CHAMBER WINDS is a graduate student wind ensemble with flexible instrumentation performs large chamber works and also features guest soloists. The group tours occasionally, and performs on and off campus at conferences and special events. (Richard Clary, Conductor)

THE FSU JAZZ ENSEMBLES have received critical acclaim for their high performance standards and their creative approach to big band jazz. Literature includes both traditional as well as contemporary works. The ensembles also read and perform student compositions and arrangements. An active performance and touring schedule is maintained.

THE CAMPUS BAND is open to all students with interest and experience. It meets weekly during both semesters, flexibily responding to students' interests and abilities while rehearsing and performing a wide and diverse literature. (Steven Kelly, Conductor)

THE MARCHING CHIEFS is a marching band of approximately 400 students that performs at all home football games and traditionally travels to two or three out-of-town games during the football season. The Chiefs are a central feature of the annual Prism Concert, which features the complete spectrum of band activities at FSU. Students who wish to enroll must audition by attending a preseason training session held before classes begin. For further information and an application, call the band office at (850) 644-3507. (Patrick Dunnigan, David Plack, Conductors)

Seminole Sound is Florida State University's Athletic Pep Band consisting of over 130 members. The Seminole Sound performs for FSU Men's and Women's Basketball, FSU Women's Volleyball, and a variety of other athletic events dedicated to the support of the FSU Athletic Programs. Each year, in support of FSU Basketball, members of the Seminole Sound travel to post season basketball tournaments including the ACC and NCAA tournaments. In addition to the support of FSU athletics, The Seminole Sound performs at a number of public events each year representing Florida State University. (David Plack, Conductor)

AUDITION INFORMATION
You do not have to be a music major to participate in the band organizations, but everyone is asked to play an audition for the purpose of placement in one of the bands.
  
Auditions for all the concert ensembles are held the first week of the semester. You should prepare a solo or contrasting etude of your choice. You will also be asked to play a few scales and sight read a short selection. Auditions are held in the Housewright Music Building. Check the band office (Room 101) for locations. Please note that Campus Band does not require an audition. Interested members should simply register for the course and attend the first class session.
  
Auditions for the Jazz Ensemble are also held on the first day of classes. Be prepared to sight read various jazz styles. You are encouraged to demonstrate any improvisational skills. Auditions are held in the Housewright Music Building.
  
Auditions for wind and percussion positions in the Marching Chiefs are held during Pre-season Training which is about ten days before the start of classes. A complete packet of information on the FSU Marching Chiefs is available by request. Auditions for the Flag Corps and Majorettes take place on campus in April for the following marching season. If you wish to audition for these groups contact the Band Office by February for additional audition details. Auditions for Chiefly Brass are held in the early part of the fall semester.