THE MARCHING SYCAMORES
The Indiana State University Marching Sycamores are the University's musical ambassadors, and are one of the most active and visible student organizations on campus. In addition to performing at all ISU home football games, the Marching Sycamores travel to one away game. The Marching Sycamores first appeared on campus in 1933, with 42 members and a drum major, under the direction of band director Harold Bright. The band played at every football and basketball game, as well as baseball games versus Purdue and Indiana University. The band performs fun and innovative shows throughout the season and strives for a powerful and exciting sound!
HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER OF THE MARCHING SYCAMORES?
You must complete the registration form on this page. All audition information for Color Guard and Drumline will be shared with you once you register. If you have any questions about this process, feel free to contact Dr. Spangler at kathryn.spangler@indstate.edu, Associate Director of Bands and Director of Athletic Bands.
DO I HAVE TIME TO MAINTAIN HIGH ACADEMIC STANDARDS?
Absolutely! The Marching Sycamores is comprised of the best and brightest students at ISU. The Marching Sycamores have one of the highest cumulative GPAs on campus with students from every academic discipline and major.
WHO CAN BE A MEMBER OF THE MARCHING SYCAMORES?
Membership in the Marching Sycamores is open to all students on the ISU campus. You do not have to be a music major to participate. Members of the Marching Sycamores represent all academic disciplines on campus!
WHAT IF I DO NOT HAVE AN INSTRUMENT?
The Marching Sycamores provide Piccolos, Tenor Saxophones, Mellophones, Baritones, Sousaphones, and Percussion instruments at no cost. Rental fees for all other instruments (clarinets, trumpets, trombones) are $60 per semester, which covers the cost of maintenance and any necessary repairs throughout the semester.
WHEN IS BAND CAMP?
The Marching Sycamores Band Camp takes place on the ISU campus in August, one week before classes begin. Some members report at different times depending on their role and year in the band. Visit the Band Camp page for more information.
WHEN DO THE MARCHING SYCAMORES REHEARSE?
During the fall semester, rehearsals are held Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 3:15-5:15PM, and Saturday mornings on game day. The Drumline often rehearse one additional day per week in sectionals for preparation of Game Day.
IS THE MARCHING SYCAMORES AN ACADEMIC COURSE?
The Marching Sycamores is an academic course, 0-1 hours of credit is awarded for participation in the band. All members must enroll in MUS 109 or MUS 409, Marching Sycamores in order to be an official member.
WHERE DO THE MARCHING SYCAMORES REHEARSE?
Rehearsals are held in historic Harding Band Building, Memorial Stadium, and the Marching Sycamores practice field located on the corner of Spruce and 9th street at Kennedy Field.
IS THERE A COST TO JOIN THE MARCHING SYCAMORES?
There are no charges associated with the use of university provided instruments, uniforms, drill or music. All members are required to provide the following: black marching shoes, black shorts, and lyre/flip folder. The Marching Sycamores provide a number of other required items for rehearsal and game day attire. Don't worry, Marching Sycamore members do not do any fundraising thanks to the generosity of the Athletic.
DO THE MARCHING SYCAMORES TRAVEL?
The Marching Sycamores perform at all home games, including one away game. In addition, the Marching Sycamores perform have performed at various exhibition performances including the Chicago Bears, Indianapolis Colts, Bands of America, ISSMA State Finals, and high schools throughout the state. All expenses associated with travel are paid for by the Marching Sycamores and Athletic Department.
HOW MANY DIFFERENT HALFTIME SHOWS DO THE MARCHING SYCAMORES PERFORM EACH SEASON?
The Marching Sycamores perform a new and different show for every 2 home games. Currently, we will perform 3-4 new shows each season.
DO MEMBERS RECEIVE SCHOLARSHIPS?
The Marching Sycamores offer the Dudine scholarship for incoming freshmen who are non-music majors. Leadership Team members and upper classmen also receive stipends in various amounts depending on the position and year in the band.
