Marching Band
Marching & Spirit Bands
The Pride of Roanoke Show Band (marching) and Pride of Roanoke Spirit Band (pep) are highly energized ensembles consisting of brass, woodwinds, marching percussion, keyboard electronica, guitars, color guard and dance performers. The main goals of these ensembles are to serve as music and spirit ambassadors representing Roanoke College, support the institution’s athletic teams and other on-campus programs taking place during the fall and spring semesters.
The Pride Show and Spirit bands are now known for their powerful sound, exciting show repertoire, and are open to all enrolled Roanoke College students with prior performance experience. Membership is by audition, and requires total dedication and maximum effort in all aspects of marching, playing, spinning, dancing, rehearsal etiquette, and performance quality. In our inaugural season, we are already bringing a new level of energy and excitement to the Roanoke College community!
Meet the Director
Terrell Smith, director of marching and spirit bands at Roanoke College, has enjoyed national and international success as a wind and percussion educator, music adjudicator and performance clinician. He continues to work as a private music instructor, wind and percussion arranger, field show designer and program coordinator for drum and bugle corps, high school and college marching bands.
Throughout his exciting career, Terrell has been on the instructional staff of several world-class drum and bugle corps, which include: The Cadets, Santa Clara Vanguard, Reading Buccaneers, and many other programs representing the elite of DCI and DCA. Before his appointment at Roanoke College, he served as the director of athletic bands and lecturer at Mount St. Mary’s University (MD), assistant director of bands, pep band director and percussion coordinator at Stevenson University (MD), and marching percussion coordinator at The University of Maryland.
FAQs
Why should I join the Marching & Spirit Bands?
Band is an opportunity to make a positive contribution to your campus and find a community of fellow music lovers. Our program also helps you fully realize your potential as you learn the intricacies of performing, grow in confidence and develop as student leaders.
Where do the bands play?
We play at home games of our Maroon men’s and women’s athletic teams, including Roanoke’s new football team. We also perform at campus and community events.
Do I need prior marching band experience?
No, we’re ready to teach you and help you hone new skills. Band members are expected to be able to read music and demonstrate a basic proficiency with their chosen instrument. But students of all experience levels, from veteran performers to beginners, are welcome.
How do I join?
Fill out our interest form to get started. We’re happy to consider new band members throughout the year.
Do the bands offer scholarships?
Yes, scholarships are available for eligible students. To learn more, contact Terrell Smith.
Can community members join?
Members of the local community who are able to maintain the attendance, musical and physical requirements of the program are also welcome.