Vandal Marching Band
The Sound of Idaho
For over a century, the Vandal Marching Band has been the Sound of Idaho, bringing energy, pride and school spirit to University of Idaho. As one of the university’s most recognized and visible ambassadors, the band plays a key role in uniting Vandals and creating an electrifying game-day atmosphere.
The Vandal Marching Band is about more than just music — it’s a family of passionate, dedicated members who share a love for performance, teamwork and Vandal spirit. As a member, you’ll perform at fun events, travel with the band and help fuel the excitement of Vandal athletics. It’s an incredible opportunity to form lifelong friendships, develop leadership skills and create unforgettable college memories.
Join the Vandal Marching Band
The Vandal Marching Band is open to anyone affiliated with University of Idaho, welcoming students from all fields of study. With members representing over 50 different majors, our ensemble thrives on diversity and school spirit.
If you're dedicated, carry a positive attitude and are willing to meet the band's time commitments, you can be a part of this exciting tradition.
Percussion auditions
While most sections do not require auditions, percussionists must complete an audition for drumline placement. However, no dedicated student with a strong work ethic and a positive attitude will be cut — we are committed to finding a place for everyone who earns the opportunity to be part of the band.
Audition process
If you’re interested in joining the VMB drumline, you’ll need to complete both an online audition submission and attend an in-person audition event.
Audition requirements
- Perform the Snare Drum part of Go Vandals at a comfortable tempo.
- Prepare the Marching Band Percussion Audition Piece.
- If auditioning only for Bass Drum or Cymbals, prepare the first 12 measures of the Marching Band Percussion Audition Piece.
Online audition submission
- Submit a YouTube video link of your performance to band@uidaho.edu by Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, to ensure placement before band camp.
In-person percussion audition
- Date: Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025
- Location: Administration Auditorium
- Time: 9 a.m. to noon and 2–8 p.m.
Problems or questions? Email the director with any questions, or if you are unable to attend.
Summer Band Camp
Get ready to learn our marching style, rehearse music and start working on pregame and halftime performances at the VMB Summer Band Camp!
Participation in all Band Camp activities is required for members.
Dates
- New members: Tuesday – Sunday, Aug. 19-24, 2025
- Returning members: Wednesday – Sunday, Aug. 20-24, 2025
Schedule
Be prepared for a full day of activities — a detailed schedule will be available in July.
Our schedule is designed to avoid conflicts with new student orientation and Greek Recruitment. If any conflicts arise, we’ll work with you to find a solution. Feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns at band@uidaho.edu.
Meals
The Vandal Marching Band provides dinners (Wednesday–Sunday) and lunch (Thursday–Sunday) for all members during Band Camp.
Location
U of I Campus, Moscow, Idaho
Band Camp updates and resources
New member welcome meeting
All new members and their parents are encouraged to attend an introductory meeting and dinner 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025, following dorm check-in.
- Parents will have the opportunity to meet the band staff and U of I’s Dean of Students.
- Students will connect with their section leaders and begin preparing for the season.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Vandal Marching Band family.
Early dorm move-in
Early dorm move-in will be available for registered band members who have applied for housing and paid their application fee by July 8.
A list of students with reserved rooms will be posted soon. If you plan to move in early, please check back to confirm your placement.
Early check-in:
- 3-5 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 19
- LLC (Living Learning Center) Information Desk, 901 Paradise Creek Building #2.
If you have questions about dorms, please contact Housing and Residence Life at 208‑885‑6571 or housing@uidaho.edu.
Borrowing an instrument
There is no fee to borrow a marching band instrument. We provide instruments for Mellophone, Euphonium, Sousaphone and Percussion, with additional instruments available based on inventory.
Contact us to request an instrument.
Vandal Marching Band FAQs
Who can join?
Any student affiliated with University of Idaho can be a member of the marching band.
Do I have to audition to be in the marching band?
Anyone with a strong work ethic, a great attitude and a commitment to the ensemble is welcome to join — no auditions required! However, percussionists must audition for placement.
Do I have to be a music major to participate?
No. Students from all programs of study are the driving force behind this ensemble. We have over 50 different major degree programs represented in the band.
Can I still join if I have never been in a marching band?
Absolutely! We will teach you everything you need to know.
What if I play the violin, oboe, bassoon or other “non-marching” instrument?
We will happily accommodate you in another section. Email the director for more details.
Is there a color guard or flag team?
Yes. The band's color guard is an active section that specializes in flag maneuvers and dance routines. Good coordination and previous experience are a plus. Email the director for more details.
How do I join the marching band?
Enroll in MusA 119: Marching Band (CRN 12906) to secure your spot. Important information about the upcoming season will be sent to registered members via their @vandals.uidaho.edu email throughout the summer.
Where does the band practice?
We practice inside the ASUI Kibbie Dome, our university's indoor football stadium. Regardless of the weather outside, it is always 70 degrees and sunny.
When does the band rehearse?
12:30-1:20 p.m. Monday through Friday.
What if I have another class during rehearsal?
Class conflicts are allowed on a case-by-case basis. Email the director if you have a potential class conflict.
Do I receive course credit for being in band?
Yes. You can receive one, two or three credits for your participation. A three credit “A” can really help your GPA!
Does it cost anything to be in the band?
No. Everything is provided by the university except a band T-shirt, black shoes and black socks.
When does band begin?
Rehearsals begin with a brief Band Camp during the week before classes begin. Students living in the dorms are able to move into their rooms early.
When does band end?
The normal marching season extends through the last game, usually in late November or early December. The season occasionally extends to the end of December for bowl game performances.
Does the band perform at all home games?
Yes. The band performs pregame, halftime and occasionally postgame shows. We also perform in the stands during the games.
What section does the band play in during home games?
You will find the Vandal Marching Band in Section 18.
Does the band travel to any away games?
Yes. The band usually goes on one major trip each fall. We often travel to an away game such as Boise State or the University of Montana. Occasionally we travel to other venues such as NFL games (Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers) and CFL games (Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver).
Connect with the Vandal Marching Band
The Vandal Marching Band invites you to be part of the excitement. We host two special events for local high school band students — the Homecoming Performance and Future Vandal Game Day. These events give you the chance to visit U of I’s campus, experience college-level music and get a firsthand look at academics and university life.
Join the Vandal Marching Band for Future Vandal Game Day
High school juniors and seniors are invited to play with the Vandal Marching Band at a home game in the Kibbie Dome.
Play with the Vandal Marching Band at Homecoming
Celebrate UIdaho Homecoming with the Vandal Marching Band
Questions?
Don't hesitate to contact us. We are here to help!
- Phone: 208-885-4129
- Fax: 208-885-7254
- Email: band@uidaho.edu
Support the Vandal Marching Band
Every member of the Vandal Marching Band has left their mark through dedication, leadership and passion. Our success today is built on the contributions of every alumnus who has been part of this tradition.
Your support helps us update uniforms, purchase new instruments and provide financial assistance to marching band students in need. Let’s keep the music alive! Please consider a gift to support the students who bring the sound and spirit to the brave and bold.