Fall Season Questions & Answers

Scholarships & Stipends

Does Frost Band of the Hour offer any scholarships?

Every full-time UM student who participates in marching band will receive a $1,500 stipend per season. Students at any South Florida college (that doesn’t have a marching band) can be in the UM Band and will receive a $1,000 stipend. Student leaders, such as drum majors, section leaders, and equipment crew, qualify for an additional $1,000 scholarship. Members of Pep Band receive a $1,000 stipend per season (you must be a member of the Marching Band to audition for Pep Band).

Course Information

I want to join the Frost Band of the Hour. How do I sign up?

Every marching band student must complete two registration methods: (1) Sign up for the University of Miami course, and (2) Complete the online Frost Band of the Hour Registration Form.

We cannot issue you a uniform or instrument rental until you are fully registered. If you have a problem registering for the course online, you can add this class with a Drop/Add Form. If you are a non-UM student, you must contact Charles Damon to complete the course registration process (cdamon@miami.edu). Be registered before Band Camp! Remember, register for the class AND submit the on-line Frost Band of the Hour Registration Form.

What is the Marching Band course number?

Marching Band is a one credit class in the Fall semester. The Course Number is: MIP 170. The class is open to all UM students, as well as any South Florida college (that doesn’t have a marching band). Non-UM students should contact Charles Damon at (305) 284-4273 or cdamon@miami.edu for more information on how to register for this class.

What is the Pep Band course number?

Pep Band is a one credit class offered in both the Fall and Spring semesters. The Course Number is: MIP 169. Only students who are currently in the marching band can audition for pep band.

Band Camp

What and when is Band Camp?

Band Camp is an exciting and energizing week of rehearsals and events prior to the beginning of Fall classes. The expectations are high and quality is always our priority. Therefore, it is mandatory that all members of the Frost Band of the Hour attend the pre-season Band Camp. During Band Camp, we will learn the pre-game show and one half-time show, as well as stands music. We will be working very hard while you meet new friends, laugh a lot, sweat a lot, and learn what it takes to become the Frost Band of the Hour.

Are meals provided during Band Camp?

We will provide each student with a meal card that covers breakfast, lunch and dinner each day during Band Camp. Meals are served in a specified dining hall on campus.

What do I need to know about rehearsing outdoors in Miami?

We strongly recommend that you arrive for rehearsals in good physical shape. Wear shorts, comfortable athletic shoes (no sandals), and a hat. Early in the season, temperatures can reach in the 90’s with high humidity, so plenty of sunblock is a must. It is also important to stay hydrated. Water is available, but we encourage you to bring your own supply, specifically a large water jug with your name on it.

What is the 2023 BAND CAMP (pre-season) schedule?

August 12

9 AM – 12 Noon: Early Dorm Move-In
12 PM – 10 PM: BAND CAMP Begins!!
All Instrumentalists, Drumline, Hurricanettes, Guard

August 13, 14, 15

9 AM – 10 PM: BAND CAMP!

August 16

4 PM – 10 PM: CANES KICK-OFF Performance and field rehearsal

August 17, 18, 19

7 PM – 10 PM: BAND CAMP Continues

August 20

9 AM – 10 PM: Last day of BAND CAMP!!

Housing

Where do I live during Band Camp?

If you are living in a UM dorm or campus housing this Fall, early check-in will be made available to all marching band students on the first morning of Band Camp. Be sure to submit the Housing Application Form to Residential Life and meet all of that department’s deadlines. There is no extra charge to Frost Band of the Hour students for early dorm move-in.

When completing our Registration Form, be sure to answer the questions regarding campus housing and that you intend to utilize the "early move in" times at your dorm. We want to help you to prepare for a smooth transition with the housing department during band camp.

Schedule

What is the Marching Band rehearsal schedule during the Fall Semester?

This class meets M, W, F 4:00pm to 6:00pm, and Saturdays 9:00am to 12:00 noon.

When does the Pep Band rehearse?

This class meets on Wednesday evenings from 7-8pm during both the Fall and Spring semesters.

What is the complete band performance and event schedule for Fall semester?

A complete and final schedule of all rehearsals, performances and events will be available in April. Keep checking this site for the schedule and download it for your reference. Please study the dates and times on the Band Schedule and reserve these dates on your calendar. Beyond our regular rehearsals, the Band of the Hour is actively involved on football game days, at Homecoming Weekend events, and more.

Since we provide you with a detailed schedule months in advance, we expect that you plan accordingly so there are no conflicts. Your attendance and participation in ALL rehearsals, performances, and events is mandatory.

What is the pre-season Band Camp Schedule?

See Band Camp info above.

Cost

What does it cost to be in the Frost Band of the Hour?

There are very few costs associated with being a student member of the Frost Band of the Hour.

ALL Students will pay an Instrumental/Equipment rental fee of $30.

ALL students will pay a refundable deposit of $60.

ALL students will pay a $75.00 Uniform/Accessory fee that covers your marching shoes, band shirts, cap, and many other items.

This is a total of $165.00 that the students must pay on the first day of BAND CAMP, in cash. No checks accepted - CASH ONLY.

The Instrument/Equipment fee and the Uniform/Accessory fee are not refundable.

Returning students who have their marching shoes from previous years in good shape will have their fees reduced accordingly.

If you are a non-UM student marching with the Frost Band of the Hour, it will cost you $150 to register for the class.

Absence Policy

What if I have to miss a scheduled rehearsal or performance?

Your attendance and participation in ALL scheduled rehearsals, performances, and events is mandatory. Any absence MUST be approved in advance by submitting an official Absence Request form and approved by the director.

Instruments & Supplies

Do I need my own instrument to march in the Band of the Hour?

No, you will rehearse and perform with one of our Frost Band of the Hour instruments. You will check-out one of these instruments on the first day of Band Camp. The rental fee ($30) and refundable deposit ($60) are due at the time the instrument is issued to you. All flute players will march piccolo.

Come prepared to pay the instrument rental fee and refundable deposit on the first day of Band Camp when the instrument is issued to you. The deposit will be credited back to you once the instrument is returned on time and in good condition. Instrument deposits do not carry over from year to year.

Are there any additional supplies I need to bring to practice?

Other important supplies that you will need throughout the season will be provided to you on the first day of Band Camp. These items include: a binder for your drill, binder strap, music flip folder, instrument lyre, and 4 poker chips for marking your spots.

Uniforms & Accessories

Frost Band of the Hour uniform fittings and check-out will take place during Band Camp. Once the uniform is in your possession, you are responsible for the cleaning and care throughout the season. Washing instructions will be provided.

If you feel you may need a uniform that is larger or smaller than the traditional sizes, please call or e-mail us with your jacket and waist size right away

As part of the online Band of the Hour Registration Form, you will be asked to include your shoe and clothing sizes. This is important as you will receive shoes, gloves, and two rehearsal t-shirts when you arrive at Band Camp. You will need these items throughout the season. There is no charge to the student for these items.

Auditions

Do I have to audition?

There is no audition required to be an instrumental member of the Frost Band of the Hour Marching Band. However, there are mandatory "placement" auditions for all instruments beginning promptly on the first day of Band Camp. These auditions will determine part placement. You will not have a spot in the first show if you are not at the audition. Your playing will also be a factor in determining part-time or alternate status. Do not wait until the week before band camp to start playing your instrument again.

Pep Band auditions occur the first week of regularly scheduled classes in the Fall semester. You must be a member of the Marching Band to audition. More information on Pep Band auditions will be announced during Band Camp.

Notes and Reminders

Everyone must be registered for Marching Band (MIP 170), including auxiliaries.
Submit the online Frost Band of the Hour Registration Form, including your shoe and clothing sizes.
Musicians will receive their music in July. If you do not, please call the Band Office at (305) 284-4273 or cdamon@miami.edu.
Be prepared to pay an instrument rental fee and refundable deposit on the first day of Band Camp when the instrument is issued to you.
Often there will be Band performances during the Holiday breaks. Consult the Band Schedule before making any travel plans for Fall Break, Thanksgiving Break, and/or Winter Break. Contact Professor Rees at jcr86@miami.edu directly with questions.

If you still have questions, please contact Charles Damon at (305) 284-4273 or cdamon@miami.edu.