Below are the answers to the most frequently asked questions we receive from non-music major students planning to attend Auburn.
Participation
All ensembles within the Department of Music are open to any Auburn student. Some require an audition, while others do not. If you are interested in knowing more about a specific ensemble’s requirements please visit our ensembles page. To address specific questions not covered on those pages, please email the faculty member in charge.
Scholarships
Scholarships for ensemble participation are available in the areas of Band and Choir for students of all majors. The details and requirements for a non-music major audition in Band can be found here. The details and requirement for a non-major audition in Choir can be found here.
Course Credit
All Department of Music ensembles are classes that require course registration and provide academic credit.
Time Commitment
Each ensemble meets on a regular schedule throughout the week. For specific information about rehearsal times visit our ensembles page. Ensemble participation is by semester for most AU ensembles. This allows you, the student, the opportunity to determine whether you re-audition or re-enroll. All ensembles perform publicly, some gig.
Fees
Ensembles do not charge participation fees; however, some have specific requirements, such as concert attire, that necessitate purchases.
Equipment
Auburn Bands provides the following for Concert Band participants owning an instrument:
- Oboes
- Bassoons
- Bass Clarinets
- Tenor Saxophones
- Baritone Saxophones
- Horns
- Euphoniums
- Tubas
- Percussion – all students must own their own sticks and mallets
Auburn University Marching Band provides the following instruments for all participants:
- Piccolos
- Trumpets
- Mellophones
- Trombones
- Baritones
- Tubas
- Percussion (battery and front ensemble)
The AUMB also has a limited number of Tenor Saxophones for use.
Auburn Bands provides the following for Jazz Band participants not needing one of these instruments:
- Flutes
- Tenor Saxophones
- Baritone Saxophones
- Trombones
- Drum Set – students must own their own sticks
- Piano
The Auburn University Chamber Orchestra provides the following instruments for participants if needed.
- Violin
- Viola
- Cello
- Bass
The Auburn University Percussion Ensemble provides all traditional instruments for participants. Students may have to purchase small, unconventional instruments (a metal bowl, a flower pot, etc.) if called for in the music. All students must own their sticks and mallets.
The Auburn University Steel Band provides all instruments and mallets for the traditional instruments. A drumset is also provided; however, students must own their sticks.
The Auburn University Indian Ensemble provides all instruments for participating students. If there is an instrument that Auburn does not own, but in which a student is interested, an attempt will be made to procure it.