Become a Notre Dame Trumpet

Joining the Trumpet Section

In order to become a part of one of the country's greatest, and most recognizable bands, you must first go through a training period known as "band camp." Band camp starts about 5 days before the first day of classes here on campus, and students participating in band camp are allowed to move into the dorms earlier than the other students. Auditioning for the band consists of two separate auditions: 1. a playing audition, where you will play some required music which the Band mails to you during the summer and another piece that you think demonstrates your musical ability; and 2. a marching audition on the final day of camp that proves you can learn simple marching drills and perform them accurately. The music audition is done as a solo with only two directors present to judge you. The marching audition is performed in groups of 16 with the entire band watching, playing the music with you, and waiting their turn. Each year, members returning to the band must go through the marching audition again, and the possibility does exist that they could be cut from the band if there are freshmen that deserve the honor more.

Specifically for trumpets, you must prove to the section leaders, along with those upperclassmen who have earned the distinction of Core Band by their superior marching ability and bandsmanship, that you have the heart, the pride, and the chops, along with big ______. Only these qualities will secure you a spot among the Trumpets who by the Grace of God are the greatest marching and playing section in the Band of the Fighting Irish.

Anyone who is interested in becoming a band member should contact the Band office, and ask to be put on the mailing list. Someone will arrange for you to move into your dorm early and get you signed up to participate in band camp. The office can be reached by phone at (574) 631-7136, e-mail at ndband@nd.edu, or by mail at University Bands, PO box 1032, Notre Dame, IN 46556. For more information about the Notre Dame Band and the audition process, visit the Official Notre Dame Band web site http://www.ndband.com.

If you are a trumpet player planning on applying to Notre Dame, e-mail us at trumpets@nd.edu, and we will fill you in on important information regarding your tryouts!