University Bands

Pep Band

• Performs at Men’s and Women’s Basketball Games.
• Performs at student spirit events and other on and off campus functions where Highlander Spirit and Pride are on display.
• Auditions for the group are held in September and October.
• The Pep Band is limited to 30 members.
• Rehearsals begin in the fall.
• Contact the Director of Bands at X2-3784 for more information.

Varsity Band (Concert Band/Wind Ensemble)

• Performs 3 formal concerts in the University Theatre each year.
• The ensemble accepts members from the general UCR student body who have played in High School music programs and perform at a level equivalent to 4 years of High School Band experience.
• Auditions are held at the beginning of each quarter for seating in the ensemble.
• It is important to note that membership in the ensemble is NOT limited to music majors.
• This ensemble plays the best of the wind repertoire and students choosing to take part will find the music interesting and challenging.
• Contact the Director of Bands at X2-3784 for more information.

Jazz Band (Jazz Ensemble/Big Band)

• This ensemble is modeled after the “Big Bands” that became popular in the late 1930’s and early 1940’s.
• The ensemble performs 3 formal concerts each year in the University Theatre but also takes part in numerous performance venues around the campus and in the general community.
• The ensemble has toured worldwide, taking part in the Montreux Jazz Festival and many festivals in the United States.
• Participation in the group is through audition only.
• Auditions are held in the fall and at the beginning of winter and spring quarters when there is a vacancy in the ensemble.  The ensemble is NOT limited to music majors.
• Members of the ensemble have extensive opportunities to perform as jazz soloists and are encouraged to develop their improvisation skills.  The music is challenging and is selected from the best of modern jazz, fusion and traditional Big Band jazz repertoire.
• Contact the Director of Bands at X2-3784 for more information.