The Vincennes University Pep Band is a performance based course which is open to all Vincennes University brass, woodwind, electric guitar, electric bass, keyboard, and percussion players regardless of their major. The VU Pep Band performs for the majority of the VU Women's and Men's home basketball games throughout the season. (Due to the VU Music Department performance schedule as well as Music Department classes, there are times when the group cannot perform for a home game.)
The ensemble performs a wide variety of musical styles including jazz, rock, pop, and Latin. The purpose of the group is to provide musical support for the Trailblazer basketball programs, and to perform at additional activities and convocations at the request of the administration.
Students must audition for the band director in order to be eligible to participate in this ensemble. Once they have auditioned, students must also be enrolled in the course (MUSE 152-001) each semester they participate.
The one-credit hour class meets in both the fall and spring semesters on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:00-2:50pm in the Band Room (RSPAC 142), and is repeatable for credit. Membership in the ensemble for the entire year is preferred, but not required.
All Pep Band members are required to attend all Pep Band performances. Based on their audition performance and availability of funds in the Music Department, some students may be eligible to receive music scholarships for participating in Pep Band.
Students who are interested in joining the VU Pep Band, or who may have questions about the ensemble or who would like more information, should contact Professor Sharon S. Jackson, Director of Bands, at 812.888.4435. Her office is located in the Red Skelton Performing Arts Center (RSPAC) Room 134. Her email address is sjackson@vinu.edu.