The Natalie L. Haslam College of Music

The University of Tennessee Bands

Color Guard marching on football field from a birds eye view.

Color Guard Auditions

The University of Tennessee Color Guard plays a vital role in the visual presentation of the Pride of the Southland Marching Band. The guard performs at all home football games in Neyland Stadium and travels with the band to select away games throughout the season.

2026 Color Guard auditions have concluded.

Details about the auditions for Fall 2027 will be posted in early 2027. In the meantime, prospective applicants are encouraged to review the information on this page and check back for updates.

How to Audition

Students interested in joining the UT Color Guard must complete the following steps:

  1. Apply to the University of Tennessee and eventually be accepted as a student. 
  2. Submit the Color Guard Audition Form.
  3. Register for an audition time.
  4. Attend the live audition on campus.

After submitting the audition form, candidates will receive additional information and scheduling details.

Applicants who cannot attend the live audition should contact the UT Band Office to discuss the possibility of a video or individual audition. While video auditions are accepted, attending the live audition is strongly recommended for the most accurate evaluation. Video submissions must be received by April 14.

Audition Requirements

Color Guard auditions are held live on the University of Tennessee campus and evaluated by UT Band Directors and experienced twirling adjudicators.

Candidates should arrive wearing:

  • Black jazz pants
  • Black shirt
  • Black dance shoes
  • Performance hair and makeup

While specific details may vary slightly each year, candidates can expect the following components.

Flag Fundamentals

Flag Fundamentals

Candidates should demonstrate the following skills on both right and left sides unless otherwise noted.

Spins

  • 100 counts regular drop spins with drop stop (RIGHT and LEFT)
  • 20 counts double time spins with drop stop (RIGHT and LEFT)

Technique Exercises

Demonstrate proficiency in:

  • Upper/Lower Cones
  • Thumb Flips
  • Row Boats
  • Flourishes

Tosses (Right Side Only)

  • Pop Toss — 1.5 rotations, catch silk down
  • Pole Toss — 1.5 rotations, catch silk down
  • Silk Toss — 2 rotations, catch silk down
  • Flat Toss — minimum 1 rotation (can show multiple variations)
  • 45 Tosses
    • Single catch silk up
    • 1.5 catch silk down
    • Double catch silk up

Body Fundamentals

Candidates should demonstrate the following skills on both sides:

  • Jazz Walks (Coupe Walks)
  • Jazz Runs
  • Chassés
  • Sautés
  • Chaîné Turns
  • Ground Rolls (standing → ground → standing)
  • Leaps
    • Split leaps
    • Double attitude leaps
    • Additional leap variations

Solo Routine

Applicants must prepare a 1:00–1:30 minute solo routine using flag only.

Candidates may choose their own music and choreography, but the routine should showcase their strongest technical and performance abilities.

Judging criteria include:

  • Technique
  • Difficulty
  • Body placement and control
  • Overall performance and showmanship

Marching Evaluation

Marching segments will be performed with a metronome at Quarter Note = 120 bpm.

Candidates should demonstrate:

  • 16 counts low mark time at right shoulder
  • 16 counts low mark time with right drop spins and drop/stop
  • 16 counts 8-to-5 marching with right drop spins and drop/stop
  • 32 counts high mark time at right shoulder

Sequences

Spin sequences facing front:

  • Beheaded
  • Steamboat (Rowboat)
  • Dance
  • All the Beautiful
  • Fireworks

After Selection

  • Students selected for the UT Color Guard are required to attend Color Guard Camp in the summer. Housing and meals will be provided during camp.
  • After the Color Guard is selected, there will be a separate audition for students interested in the rifle line. Additional details will be shared once the guard roster is finalized.
  • For additional information, please contact the UT Band Office.