Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Symphonic Band

1. When does Symphonic Band meet and does it conflict with other ensembles or athletics? Symphonic Band meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 3:50pm-4:40pm starting Wednesday, September 6th. Other ensembles including Ritterchor, St. Elizabeth Chorale, and Castle Singers meet on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:50pm-4:40pm – students participating in those groups and Symphonic Band will attend band on Mondays and choir on Thursdays. Wartburg Choir and Wind Ensemble meet at 4:50 everyday so there is no conflict with those ensembles. We have many athletes who participate in Symphonic Band – it is just a matter of meeting with Dr. M and your coaches to figure out which practices you might be late to or miss. 2. Can I only audition for the Symphonic Band or do I have to audition for the Wind Ensemble as well? You may only audition for the Symphonic Band if that is the ensemble you wish to play in. If you want to audition for a spot in the Wind Ensemble you must prepare the material for that audition (see next FAQ). 3. If I audition for Wind Ensemble and don’t make it do I have to audition for the Symphonic Band? Yes if you are an Instrumental Meistersinger Scholarship holder, but not necessarily if you are a vocal Meistersinger or non-Meistersinger, or if you are auditioning for Symphony Orchestra. Wind Ensemble auditions will be held over Labor Day weekend and results will be posted the morning of Wednesday, September 6th. During that day anyone who did not make Wind Ensemble will need to audition for a chair placement in the Symphonic Band. Friendly advice – practice both the Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band audition repertoire so you are prepared for both auditions. 4. Do I have to be a music major to participate in the Symphonic Band? No – we have all types of majors and grade levels represented in the band. We do, however, require past experience in a band (high school level preferred) 5. Do I have to have a Meistersinger Scholarship in order to participate in Symphonic Band? No – those holding a Meistersinger Instrumental Scholarship are required to participate in either Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, or Symphony Orchestra to fulfill their scholarship obligations. If you hold a vocal Meistersinger scholarship you may still participate or if you do not have a Meistersinger Scholarship you are welcome to join!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Symphonic Band

6. How many performances does the Symphonic Band have during the academic year? We will have 6 performances (3 in the Fall Term and 3 in the Winter Term). We perform approximately once each month – Homecoming Worship Service (October), Fall Concert (October), Holiday Concert (December), Meistersinger Honor Band (February), Symphonic Band runout (February), Spring Concert (April). 7. What if I don’t have my own instrument – can I still participate? Definitely – if you need an instrument from Wartburg to prepare for your audition and to have for the academic year please contact Dr. Craig Hancock (craig.hancock@wartburg.edu or 319-352-8296). You will be responsible for other needs such as reeds, valve oil, etc… Percussionists will have access to all percussion equipment when they arrive on campus. For audition preparation, equipment will be set up in the Band Hall.

2016-2017 Symphonic Band