Spirit of Gold Color Guard
The Vanderbilt Spirit of Gold Color Guard is one of the most visible aspects of Vanderbilt football games with members performing on both flag and rifle. Joining the Spirit of Gold Color Guard will allow you to make friendships that last a lifetime and create some of the most memorable experiences of your life! Membership is open to all students from Vanderbilt, Belmont, Lipscomb, Trevecca Nazarene, Vol State, Nashville State, and other Nashville colleges and universities.
REHEARSALS
Rehearsals are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30 - 6:30 pm and Fridays from 5:30 to 7:30 PM. Additional rehearsals on Saturday mornings prior to home games ( timing varies depending on kickoff time and other pregame events ). Practices are held at either McGugin Athletic Fields, the indoor field house in the Student Recreation Center, or on Dudley Field at Vanderbilt Stadium.
BAND CAMP
Band Camp is held a week before classes begin and includes extensive training in marching and playing at the college level. In addition to regular rehearsals, numerous social activities throughout the week give students a chance to relax and meet new friends! The band's early arrival on campus provides each individual an opportunity to get settled in the residence halls, rent books, make tons of new friends, and adjust to a new environment and a new independence before classes begin. Attendance at camp is mandatory.
INSTRUMENTATION
The Spirit of Gold Color Guard marches flags and rifles.
COLOR GUARD AUDITIONS
There will also be auditions for the Color Guard. While a live audition is encouraged, students may also submit a high definition video for consideration. Interested students should contact the Band Office at (615) 343-2263 or send an email to receive information. Auditions will happen during band camp in the fall semester.
TRAVEL
The Spirit of Gold Color Guard typically travels to at least one away game each season (if the game is held in Knoxville, we will travel to the Tennessee game).
The Spirit of Gold will also travel to any post-season bowl games.
Travel and food are provided at no cost to the students.
COST
Members get paid to be a part of the Vanderbilt Color Guard! While there is an initial nominal fee to join the Spirit of Gold Marching Band ( which covers uniform cleaning, t-shirt, band banquet, and some social events ) students receive a $750.00 Service Award at the end of the season. Additional items for purchase include extra gloves, black marching band shoes, and maintenance of your personal instrument. All other uniform items and travel costs ( hotels, meals, etc. ) are provided free to all members.
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