10 Band Camp Essentials

Auditions are just around the corner, which means Band Camp is in sight! If you’re interested in going out for the Purdue “All-American” Marching Band, this is guide will be your go-to!

1. Comfortable Shoes — Band Camp is a week focused on learning the marching fundamentals, so you will be on your feet A LOT. Tennis shoes are the best choice of footwear for Band Camp, and sandals and flip-flops are unacceptable. Not to sound too much like your Mom, but here’s an insider tip. Break in your shoes before you get to camp, and pack some Band-Aids in case of blisters.

2. Large Water Bottle — Hydrate don’t diedrate! Band Camp takes place the week before classes, August 11th — 17th, and the temperatures can be high. We take your safety and health seriously, and we plan plenty of breaks, but there is very little shade near Hull Field, so hydration is key.

3. Reeds — Woodwind players are expected to provide their own quality reeds at all times. Make sure to come prepared with a decent stash.

4. Supplies — All musicians should bring their own cork grease, slide oil, valve oil, etc. to make sure their instrument is in great working order throughout Band Camp. If you happen to run out and the Kloset, our one-stop shop in Elliott Hall of Music doesn’t have what you need, check out Quinlan & Fabish Music Company on Sagamore Parkway North, Lafayette.

5. Instrument — Yeah, yeah, we know. It seems obvious, but we actually do provide some instruments, depending on what you play. All candidates for wind instruments except for mellophone, baritone, and sousaphone are expected to bring their own to Band Camp. Everyone who will be using a university-owned instrument should plan to bring their own mouthpiece and supplies.

6. Drawstring Backpack — It’s HIGHLY recommended that you bring a drawstring bag to carry all of your essentials and drill charts to and from Hull Field each day.

7. Flip Folder — Every instrumentalist, including percussion and piccolo players, are required to provide their own flip folder. If you do not have one, you may purchase one from the Kloset, located in the basement of Elliott Hall of Music upon arrival.

8. White Gloves — All students using a university-owned woodwind or brass instrument will be required to wear white gloves during each rehearsal and performance. We march all Jupiter instruments during the season, so we strive to keep them in great condition! Gloves are also available for purchase in the Kloset.

9. Sunscreen, Sunglasses, and a Hat — Okay. Did we mention it’s going to be hot and we rehearse on a blacktop drill field? Please don’t forget these items! They are literally going to save you. It’s already a physically demanding week. Don’t get a sunburn, too!

10. Positive Attitude — It’s a long week, but if you come willing to work hard, seek out help when you need it, and make friends, it’s going to be so much better!

We look forward to having you on campus this August for Band Camp! And no matter what happens — we can’t wait to have you in a band or orchestras in our department!