Frequently Asked Questions
No. As one of the largest student organizations on campus, the Mighty Sound of the South has members majoring in virtually every discipline offered by The University of Memphis.
Yes. The audition should be a low-stress event. We pride ourselves on evaluating students with a broad range of experiences to a consistent level of performance quality. Learn more about Mighty Sound of the South auditions.
New for 2023! All woodwind and brass musicians who played in their high school marching band do not need to audition. Call 901.678.BAND or email mightysound@memphis.edu to complete an intake meeting.
Marching Band class meets Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30-5:30 PM. Each year, we perform at 6-7 home games, the annual Bandmasters Championship, one regular-season Memphis Tigers away game, and a bowl game. Other performances such as parades, rallies, and exhibitions, can also be scheduled. The time commitment is significant but very manageable!
1 – Fill out an Interest Form
The first step in joining the Mighty Sound of the South is to fill out the interest
form. This form tells us some basic facts about you, including your contact information,
which will allow us to update you on important dates and information.
2 – Apply to the University of Memphis
Incoming freshmen and transfer students should apply for admission to the University
using the appropriate application on the UofM Admissions page.
If you are attending a local community college and are interested in being in the University of Memphis Marching Band, there is a simple way to do this. Don't hesitate to contact the band office for more information at 901.678-2263, mightysound@memphis.edu.
3 – Audition
- Woodwind + Brass players who played in their high school band, no auditions needed! Email mightysound@memphis.edu or call 901.678-BAND to complete an intake meeting.
- Tigerette auditions: April 1
- Drumline auditions: April 29
- Colorguard auditions: April 29
While we prefer to avoid class conflicts, we can sometimes accommodate them on a case-by-case basis. If this applies to you, please get in touch with the Director of Athletic Bands.
Some costs are associated with band membership in the Mighty Sound of the South, including the course fees for the academic class and some small uniform items, such as shoes and gloves. For most students, scholarships are available to help cover these costs. When the Mighty Sound travels, there is no cost to students, and there are no student fundraisers. All you do is show up, perform, and have a great time!
Scholarships are available to most students in the Mighty Sound of the South. A student playing in the marching band (fall) and pep band (spring) can receive nearly $2,000.
For a step-by-step guide to joining the MIghty Sound color guard or Tigerettes, visit our Join The Band page.
For a step-by-step guide to joining the Mighty Sound drumline, visit our Join The Band page.
Yes! We usually perform at one regular-season away game and a bowl game. The pep bands also travel to our men's and women's conference basketball tournaments in the spring semester.