The Natalie L. Haslam College of Music

The University of Tennessee Bands

Drumline Auditions

The University of Tennessee Drumline plays an important part of the success of the Pride of the Southland Band.  The Drumline performs in the stands at all home games in Neyland stadium and travels with the band to all of the away games throughout the season.

The UT Drumline is comprised of four sections.  Snares, Tenors, Bass Drums, and Cymbals.  Depending on the number of students auditioning, the UT Drumline typically carries 10 Snare Drums; 5 Tenors; 8 Bass Drums and 12-15 Cymbals.  The Pride of the Southland Marching Band does not have a front ensemble.

All new drumline applicants (music majors and non-majors) must complete a two-step audition process.

Step 1: Video Audition

*ALL Applicants will submit their video link through the Pride audition form.

Introduction

Begin your video with:

  • Name
  • Hometown
  • High school
  • Music selections you will perform
  • Your most memorable band experience
  • Why you want to be a member of the Pride

Required Snare Solo

Applicants must submit:

  • Two rudiments of their choice, performed from slow to fast and back to slow
  • One snare drum solo of their choice, approximately 2–5 minutes in length

The solo may be performed on either concert or marching snare.

Required Cadence (provided)

Applicants must submit:

  • Perform the PROVIDED CADENCE on the marching instrument of your choice (full page).

Optional Mallet Solo

Optional selections should also be approximately 2–5 minutes in length.

Recording Guidelines

  • Combine your introduction, rudaments, and excerpts into one video
  • Videos may be edited together from multiple takes
  • Use an unlisted YouTube link (not public or private)
  • Include your first and last name in the video description
  • Position the camera to clearly show your feet, hands, sticks/mallets, and instrument
  • ALL Applicants will submit their video link through the Pride audition form.
  • Review of audition videos will begin shortly after the deadline, and notifications of acceptance on to the live audition will begin near April 1. Late auditions may be accepted as space permits.

Step 2: April Live Drumline Final Audition

Students selected through the initial video round will be invited to attend the final round auditions on the UT Campus on Sunday, April 25. The final line placement and instrument assignments will be announced shortly after. Members will be invited to the annual UT Drumline Camp June 4-6, 2027. Both new and returning members are required to attend.