THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI
SOUNDSATIONAL For more information, contact Dr. James Standland, Assistant Director of Bands, Director of The PRIDE of Mississippi: james.standland@usm.edu or Dr. Catherine Rand, Director of Bands: catherine.rand@usm.edu www.usm.edu/music/bands 601-266-4990
Frequently Asked Questions I want to major in music; when can I audition?
Audition dates and registration are found on the School of Music website: usm.edu/music click on FUTURE STUDENTS and then AUDITIONS. You can also audition at All-South Honor Band held in February.
Can I receive a scholarship if I Major in Music?
Service Awards are awarded to students based upon their audition and the instrumental needs of the ensembles.
I am NOT a music major. Can I audition for The Pride and receive a scholarship?
ALL students are welcome to audition for The Pride. The PRIDE is known to have students who are majoring in Business, Nursing, Engineering, Criminal Justice and many other majors, marching at every home football game. Even non-majors can receive a service award from the University of Southern Mississippi band program. All Service Awards are awarded to students based upon their audition and the instrumental needs of the ensembles.
When can I audition to march in The Pride?
As a music major – If you pass your audition and are accepted into the School of Music you are automatically accepted into The Pride. As a non-major --- you will need to contact Dr. Standland to arrange an audition time for The Pride. You may contact him at james.standland@usm.edu.
When is ALL-SOUTH HONOR BAND?
All-South Honor Band is held every year during the month of February. Check dates and register now at usm.edu/band.
Do Music Majors have to apply to the university before they can audition?
No, but any acceptance into the School of Music and Service Awards are contingent upon being admitted to Southern Miss. Apply to Southern Miss at usm.edu then click on Future Students.
Are the Dixie Darlings and the Auxiliary part of the band program?
The Dixie Darlings, flags, and the feature twirlers are part of The Pride. Each section meets a minimum of one-hour before each regular band rehearsal. All members of each group receive a service award.
Will I have the opportunity to play in a concert ensemble?
There are several other performance opportunities available for all students, including Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, University Band, Golden Eagle basketball pepband, Steel Pan, Jazz Ensemble, and chamber groups for every instrument.
How is playing in The Pride different than my high school or community college band?
The Pride of Mississippi is the heartbeat of Southern Miss. With one hundred years of tradition and Alumni, everyone wants to be a part of this nationally-recognized band. There is no greater satisfaction for The Pride of Mississippi than when the fans line the streets of the Southen Miss campus to see The Pride lead the Golden Eagles into the M.M. Roberts Stadium!