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Vanderbilt Spirit of Gold Marching Band

The Spirit of Gold Marching Band

Come be a part of one of the largest and most visible student organizations at Vanderbilt University! Entertaining tens of thousands of fans with their spirited, high-energy performances, the Spirit of Gold Marching Band enjoys a growing reputation as one of the great collegiate marching bands in the country.  Our repertoire runs the gamut from rock and pop classics to hip-hop hits; from classical favorites to chart-topping tunes made here in Nashville!  Membership is open to all students attending Vanderbilt University as well as other Nashville area universities (including Belmont University, Lipscomb University, Nashville State Community College, and Trevecca Nazarene University among others).

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Rehearsals

Rehearsals are held three times a week:

  • Tuesday 4:30pm-6:30pm
  • Thursday 4:30pm-6:30pm
  • Friday 5:30pm-7:30pm

An additional rehearsal is held on Saturday mornings the day of home football games (exact timing varies depending on kickoff time).

Practices are held at either McGugin Athletic Fields, the indoor field house in the Student Recreation Center, or on Dudley Field at FirstBank 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

  • Woodwinds
    • Piccolo
    • Clarinet
    • Alto Saxophone
    • Tenor Saxophone
    • Baritone Saxophone
  • Brass
    • Trumpet
    • Mellophone
    • Trombone
    • Baritone/Euphonium
    • Sousaphone
  • Percussion
    • Marching Snare Drum
    • Marching Tenor Drums (Quads + Spock)
    • Marching Bass Drum
    • Marching Cymbals
  • Auxiliary
    • Color Guard (Flag & Rifle)
    • Twirlers
    • Drum Majors

Learn More About Specific Sections

Placement Assessment / Auditions

Travel

The Spirit of Gold Marching Band typically travels to at least one away game each season.  

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 Athletic Bands! 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 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. 

Student Leadership Opportunities

  • Drum Majors & Section Leaders

    Drum Majors and Student Leadership staff are selected from the ranks of the Spirit of Gold Marching Band. All candidates must have completed one season of membership before applying.  Further information is supplied to members prior to the selection process.  

  • Executive Committee

    Members of the SOG Executive Committee are elected by members of the band. Offices include Band President, Vice President, Treasurer/Secretary, and a representative from each class (First-Year, Sophomore, Junior, Senior).

    While Drum Majors and Section Leaders are primarily focused on matters concerning rehearsals and performances, the Executive Committee focuses on outside-of-rehearsal activities to help bring the band closer together socially.

Service Organizations

The honorary band sorority, Tau Beta Sigma, is very active throughout the year providing special service to the band and supporting its needs.  This organization is open to people of all genders .  

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