Welcome to the band p State University and to in the Land, the Spirit
As we prepare for Fall time this summer to re time with family and friends.
pursella@nsula.edu
I’m excited to welcome Dr. Andrew Blair as Interim Associate Director of Bands. He’ll be helping lead the day-to-day operations of the SON and will also direct the Wind Ensemble in the spring. His leadership, organization, and commitment to our students will be a great addition to the year ahead.
A special welcome goes out to all of our new members joining the SON this year. We’re excited to have you with us, and we look forward to welcoming you into our band family.
For all, this newsletter includes helpful information for the upcoming season, including action items, performance dates, and special event info. A few areas to focus your immediate attention:
Freshmen students:
Freshman Connection, page 4
Classes to Register, page 5
All students:
Scholarship requirements, page 6
Performance schedule, page 8
Physical requirement, page 31
Take a few minutes to view the calendar with your family and encourage them to plan a visit or two, as we would love them to see you this season.
We’re also glad to welcome Dr. Steven Wimberley back to NSU as Assistant Director of Bands/Percussion with the SON. His experience with the program and expertise in marching percussion will help make this an outstanding season for all of us.
There’s a lot to look forward to this year, including our anticipated trip to Dublin in March 2027. There is still room for SON members who would like to join the trip, and we’ll also have a couple of easy fundraising opportunities that mostly involve sharing links through social media.
I’m already looking forward to the fall semester so I can work with some of the hardest-working, most dedicated students on campus. Until then, enjoy your summer, have some fun, and come back ready for a great year.
Know a prospective Demon when you see one? Help us get the word out.
NSU Bands has plenty of scholarships to help students achieve their dreams and develop life-long memories
What classes do I need What classes do I need to register? to register?
Students must sign up for each section in their category for the band scholarship to distribute. For those attending Freshman Connection, please share this list with your advisor!
Woodwind, Brass, Drum Majors & Support Staff
must sign up for both:
MUS 1310 01N #10274
MUS 1300 45N #10270
Color
Guard & Twirlers
must sign up for all three:
MUS 1310 01N #10274
MUS 1300 45N #10270
MUS 1300 01N #10268
Percussion Battery & Front Ensemble
must sign up for all three:
MUS 1310 01N #10274
MUS 1300 45N #10270
MUS 1400 45N #11032
Demon Dazzler
must sign up for all three:
MUS 1310 01N #10274
MUS 1300 48N #10273
DAN 1180 01N #10098
Wind Symphony & Fall Winds
Have a conflict with another class? Complete the Permit Request Form: (scan the QR code to the right)
Band Scholarships Band Scholarships
Beginning Fall 2026, all students on a band scholarship will perform a re-audition for the upcoming academic year in August, after the SON Band Camp. This process is being implemented for the following reasons:
Allow returning students an opportunity for a scholarship increase due to greater proficiency on their instrument (pending available funds)
Award students for taking on roles on secondary instruments, when requested, to provide proper ensemble balance
Award financial incentives for our leadership team, who are taking on additional responsibilities
Limit the taxing of students needed for multiple large ensembles
For all students on a band scholarship
Enroll and participate in pre-season band camp (course enrollment information included in this newsletter)
Attend and take part in weekly marching band rehearsals
Perform in all scheduled marching band events
Music Majors
Audition in August for the fall concert ensembles
Music majors will fulfill their obligation to the band scholarship by auditioning for the Director of Bands, with possible placement in one of the following ensembles: Wind Symphony Fall Winds
Wind/percussion section of the Symphony Orchestra
A Music Major can audition for the Purple Haze Basketball Pep Band, however, doing so does not exclude them from the fall concert ensemble audition
Non-Music Majors
Audition in August for the Purple Haze Basketball Pep Band
Only 29 students will be selected for the Basketball Pep Band (with alternates also named)
The Purple Haze Basketball Band will carry a supplemental scholarship for the Spring Semester.
If a non-music major auditions for and is selected to the Wind Symphony and/or Fall Winds, they are not required to audition for the Basketball Pep Band
Band Scholarships
What classes do I need to register for my scholarship to populate on my portal?
The graphic on the next page has the specific CRN numbers you will need for marching band. Please make sure you register for the correct sections, as scholarships often do not populate due to one or more CRN numbers that are not correct.
I am not a music major, Can I audition for the fall concert bands?
Yes. If you audition and make one of the concert bands, you will not be required to audition for the Basketball Pep Band.
If you audition for the concert bands but are not selected, you will still be eligible for the Basketball Pep Band without an additional audition.
Can band scholarships be reduced?
Yes, however, the reduction does not take place immediately. Students who do not demonstrate the level of proficiency to support their current level of scholarship will be offered a development plan that clearly defines expectations to remove the recommendation for a reduction. Students must fulfill any defined deficiency by the end of the term. If not fulfilled, a reduction will occur the following semester.
Scholarship reductions are very rare, but offer an opportunity to protect the institution and the integrity of the band program.
Will I be required to do Marching Band, Concert Band, and Basketball Band?
No! In fact, one of our rationales for everyone auditioning is to place the best players in the best positions so we can provide balanced responsibilities by limiting the same people doing multiple ensembles beyond the SON.
Northwestern State Bands Northwestern State Bands
Performance Schedule Performance Schedule
Spirit of Northwestern 2026-2027 Performance Schedule
Thursday, August 27 - Home vs. Louisiana Christian
Saturday, September 5 - at Louisiana Tech (Tentative)
Saturday, September 12 - Kickstart on the Cane
Saturday, September 26 - Home vs. Southeastern (Young Performers Day)
Saturday, October 3 - Marching Exhibition @ Melissa, Texas
Saturday, October 17 - Home vs. McNeese
Saturday, October 24 - Home vs. Nicholls
Saturday, October 31 - Classic on the Cane Marching Exhibition
Saturday, November 7 - Home vs. UTRGV
Saturday, November 14 - Home vs. Houston Christian
Saturday, December 5 - Christmas Festival Parade
Thursday, January 14, 2027 - SON Awards Banquet 7-10 p.m.
Wednesday, March 17, 2027 - St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland
Concert Ensemble 2026-2027 Performance Schedule
Tuesday, September 29 - Wind Symphony @7:30 p.m. (Magale)
Thursday, November 5 - Fall Winds @7:30 p.m. (Magale)
Friday, November 6 - Wind Symphony @7:30 p.m. (Magale)
Thursday-Saturday, January 21-23 - Wind Symphony Tour
Saturday, February 20 - Wind Symphony @TBA (Magale)
Thursday, March 4 - Wind Ensemble & Concert Band @7:30 p.m. (Magale)
Thursday-Saturday, April 15-17 - Invitational Band Festival
Sunday, April 25 - Family Weekend Concert @ 2:00 p.m. (Magale)
& fallconcertbands fallconcertbands
Fall Winds Fall Winds
Wind Symphony Wind Symphony &
Fall Winds Fall Winds
Fall Winds is a fully-formed concert band that utilizes the NSU band staff and student conductors. The ensemble meets once a week and has one concert in November.
Auditions Auditions
Students will audition at the end of band camp/first few days of classes in the Fall Semester (based on faculty availability). Music will be available via the QR code on page 11 no later than June 1.
Meetings Meetings
Fall Winds meets on Fridays from 12:30-1:45 in the Bill Brent Band Hall.
Concert Concert
Fall Winds will perform on Wednesday, November 5, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. in Magale Recital Hall.
What class do I register? What class do I register?
Fall Winds is listed as BAND: MUS 1310 02N, CRN #10275. Students interested should sign up during their Freshman Connection/Registration Days so they have the time open in their schedule. (Note: your schedule will have the class on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 12:301:45. If you cannot sign up for it due to a class conflict, you can easily get a permit by scanning the QR code below.
I want to lead the ensemble I want to lead the ensemble
Student conductor applications will be solicited after the first few weeks of the fall semester. Selection is competitive, with priority given to those students who have completed the conducting sequence and are near their residency requirement.
Wind Symphony Wind Symphony
The Northwestern State Wind Symphony is made up of 50 of the finest wind and percussion performers at the university. Literature selected is from a diverse field of music from the 19 century to the present day, representing composers from diverse backgrounds. The group tours regionally and has enjoyed performances abroad. Membership is based on audition.
Auditions Auditions
Students will audition at the end of band camp/first few days of classes in the Fall Semester (based on faculty availability). Music will be available on the NSU Band webpage (nsu.la/band) and via the QR code no later than June 1.
What class do I register? What class do I register?
Wind Symphony is listed as BAND: MUS 1310
02N, CRN #10275. All students auditioning should register for the course. If your audition does not result in a spot in the Wind Symphony, then your registration will count for Fall Winds. If you have a class conflict, the QR code on page 10 can be used.
Meetings Meetings
Wind Symphony meets weekly on Monday & Wednesday from 12:30-1:45 p.m. The first reading rehearsal will take place on Wednesday, August 19, 2026
Concerts Concerts
The Northwestern State Wind Symphony will have several performances during the Fall semester: Concert #1 - September 29, 2026, 7:30 p.m. Concert #2 - November 6, 2026, 7:30 p.m. Northwestern State Honor Band - Nov. 14, 2026, TBA
Literature Literature
Literature selected for the ensemble varies to satisfy our audiences, music performance majors, music education majors planning to teach in the public schools, and those students majoring in fields outside of music who enjoy a challenging and meaningful experience. Composers recently performed include:
I am not a music major; can I audition I am not a music major; can I audition for the Fall Concert Groups for the Fall Concert Groups
Absolutely! The Wind Symphony & Fall Winds consists of many different majors from the Northwestern State campus. In addition, students from all stages (freshmen to graduate students) are members on the ensemble.
I only want to participate in the Fall winds; do I only want to participate in the Fall winds; do Ineed to audition for Wind Symphony Ineed to audition for Wind Symphony
Students will audition during the audition weekend for either the Wind Symphony or the Fall Winds Concert Band. Students should plan to register for the ensemble during Freshman Connection/Registration Days, as it will be easier to drop the ensemble, versus adding it later.
If I do not audition into the concert ensembles in If I do not audition into the concert ensembles in the Fall, can I participate in the Spring? the Fall, can I participate in the Spring?
Yes! In fact, the band scholarship will require only one concert band in the spring semester. Auditions for the spring concert groups will be held in November, and audition materials will be available in October.
spirit of spirit of northwestern northwestern
Marching Marching
Director of Bands
Dr. Anthony Pursell
Associate Director of Bands
Dr. Andrew Blair
SON Staff SON Staff
Assistant Director of Bands/ Percussion
Dr. Steven Wimberley
Marching Band Visual Coordinator/ Woodwind Specialist
Mr. David Steele
Demon Heat Color Guard Coordinator
Ms. Jena Elfer
Demon Dazzler Danceline Coordinator
Mrs. Brandi Chasteen
Drum Major Tech
Dr. Molly Blair
Band Band
Staff Arranger Jackson Riffle
Graduate Assistants
Ms. Remi Blanchard
Ms. Rikki Landry
Mr. Jack Stanley
Mr. Samuel Wyant
It’s an honor to introduce myself as the Interim Associate Director of Bands at Northwestern State University. This year, I have the privilege of leading the Spirit of Northwestern, conducting the Wind Ensemble, and working with our music students in a variety of courses across the department. Stepping into this role has only deepened my excitement for what lies ahead, because the team surrounding our students is extremely strong.
One of our biggest points of pride is the reimagined operations structure within the Spirit of Northwestern. Our student leaders now have meaningful ownership of the areas that keep a collegiate band thriving: communications, inventory, uniforms, repertoire, facilities, and health and wellness. We’ve also launched a brand new International Student Liaison team, whose behind the scenes work is already transforming the experience and sense of connection for our international members. Their efforts reflect our broader goal this year: aligning professional development with real world service opportunities so that our students grow not only as performers, but as leaders.
We are thrilled to return to a two show collegiate marching band model, supported by a professional staff with decades of experience at NSU and across the country. This year, we also welcome NSU “Double Demon” Dr. Steven Wimberley, fresh from completing his Doctorate at LSU, as our Interim Assistant Director of Bands and Percussion. His expertise in design, instruction, and program development will be invaluable as we continue shaping the future of our ensembles.
Beyond marching season, I’m eager to expand the Wind Ensemble’s reach through new young people’s concerts and partnerships with local schools. Many students in our community do not currently receive music as part of their school day, and we see this as an opportunity to bring high quality, engaging musical experiences directly to them.
Most of all, we are excited to get back to what we do best: making music, building community, and creating unforgettable experiences for our students throughout the school year. The Northwestern State Bands are ready for an incredible year, and I’m grateful to be part of the journey.
from from
Hello Spirit of Northwestern!
The 2026 Drum Major team wishes leadership team is working to be the setting up the band for a great seaso
The Spirit of Northwestern (SoN) at culture. There is a deep history of as organization, and you are soon to be part of the next chapter. The SoN is one of the largest organizations on campus and boasts members from Ohio to Texas to Honduras, and of course, from right here in Louisiana. The marching band also consists of many different majors, from music to elementary education to forensic sciences to nursing. Despite the diversity in our members’ past lives and future professions, the SoN marching band is a home and family to all. So, as you twirl, drum, dance, blow, sing, or chant, understand that you represent a legacy, a community, and a family. Th D M j ’ h
“ATTITUDE is about making a daily choice to show up with positivity, purpose, and pride. It’s about staying engaged even when things get tough, pushing through challenges with focus instead of checking out. A strong attitude replaces frustration with effort...you don’t complain, you commit. When everyone commits to that kind of attitude, the entire group performs and carries itself at a higher level. Whether on the field, in rehearsal, or in everyday life, your mindset reflects not just on you, but on the entire band. By choosing positivity and giving your best, you help create a culture of excellence and represent the group with pride everywhere you go. A member with a good attitude approaches rehearsal with a positive mindset, stays focused through challenges, and represents the band with pride.”
- Aliyah Gonzalez
“ACCOUNTABILITY” is the ability to carry your own weight and contribute true value to a group's mission or goals. At any given point after summer band camp, you should be able to answer “ yes ” to these two questions: If everyone was as prepared as I am right now, would this band be marching with pride? If the people on either side of me were absent, would I still play and march with confidence? I would like to point out that being prepared does not mean being perfect or knowing everything Accountability is not about being better than the people around you and having all of the answers. It is about doing your job to the best of your ability. An accountable member is one that our family can lean on and learn from.”
- Mason Windham
“COMMUNITY is a sense of shared purpose and value rather than individuality. Being a SoN member, it is crucial that you get to know the people around you. What happens when you forget your water bottle at the practice field? You call a friend! What happens when you are so stressed out from school that you just need someone to talk to? You call a friend! There is truly someone out there for everyone when they are in need of help. This is why I will be introducing the 5 C’s; Connection, Communication, Collaboration, Commitment, and Contribution! These attributes are building blocks for creating a resilient and engaging network. A network of people is essential when getting through college. A member that values community strives to improve their network and achieve the 5 C’s.”
- Rhyan Bowen
“VISION is the foundation on which we build our future As SoN members, we each strive to foster a better tomorrow, both on and off the practice field While we all together focus on developing the best show, we should equally set ourselves up for a life past NSU. Our goal remains your goal even when the shakos are off. The 2026 SoN will be the best edition yet as we take lessons learned from our alumni family and use our combined vision of the future to set the tone for success. A member with vision is a strong and committed asset to our team whose contributions build skills that last a lifetime. ”
- Jarrett Thomisee
We believe that these four pillars will create a strong foundation to continue to build our legacy on! Let’s work together to push this program to new highs together to showcase the 2026 edition of the Spirit of Northwestern to the NSU campus and beyond!
Woodwinds & Brass
Items Needed for SON Rehearsals
Rehearsal
Gloves
(required for all brass players using school-owned instruments)
Instrument
Water Bottle
(water will be provided; please fill with ice and water prior)
Charged Smartphone
UDB Pro App
(login information will be given to you during camp orientation)
Beam Music App
(login information will be given to you during camp orientation)
Tonal Energy Tuner App
USB Battery Pack
(optional, but highly encouraged)
Woodwind & Brass Rehearsals
during the Fall semester: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
3:30-5:20 p.m. SON Practice Field
Items Needed for Performances
Black Performance Gloves
(available for purchase from the TBS store)
Black Athletic Crew-Length Socks
Woodwind & Brass
must sign up for both:
MUS 1310 01N #10274
MUS 1300 45N #10270
(available for purchase from the TBS store)
Black Marching Shoes
(available for purchase from the TBS store)
SON Summer Uniform Shirt
(provided by NSU Bands)
SON Summer Uniform Shorts
(provided by NSU Bands)
Woodwind & Brass Fees may be paid via credit card using the QR to the right All Members: $75.00
Marching Percussion & &Front Ensemble
Hello, Spirit of Northwestern! My name is Steven Wimberley, and I’m very excited to be joining the Northwestern State University School of Creative and Performing Arts and Spirit of Northwestern communities as the interim Assistant Director of Bands and Instructor of Percussion.
As a graduate of NSU, I am well aware of the impact that the SON has on the university and the community. I am incredibly grateful to be joining the team and contribute to the organization. My fiancée, Makayla, and I are excited to return to Natchitoches and to start this new chapter of our lives. I’ve included some information here to help you get to know me.
I’m an active educator, performer, arranger,and composer. As an educator, I have taught percussion at both the high school and collegiate levels throughout Louisiana and Texas. Most recently, I served as the drumline Teaching Assistant for the Department of Bands at Louisiana State University while pursuing my DMA. During this appointment, I oversaw all aspects of the drumline for “The Golden Band from Tiger Land”.
As a performer, I have performed at various Music Educator Association conferences, regional CBDNA conferences, Percussive Arts Society International Convention concerts, and National Conference of Percussion Pedagogy concerts throughout my career.
Percussion Battery & Front Ensemble
must sign up for all three:
MUS 1310 01N #10274
MUS 1300 45N #10270
MUS 1400 45N #11032
Percussion Rehearsals
during the Fall semester: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 3:30-5:20 p.m. SON Practice Field Tuesday & Thursday 5:15-6:30 p.m. Bill Brent Rehearsal Hall (CAPA 120)
Percussion Fees
may be paid via credit card using the QR to the left
All Members: $75.00
Marching Percussion
& &Front Ensemble
As an arranger, I have crafted marching percussion parts for various high schools and universities throughout Louisiana, Arkansas, and Texas. As a composer, I have had pieces performed around the U.S. and have had works premiered at the Texas Music Educators Association and the Percussive Arts Society International Convention.
I hold a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Percussion Performance with a minor in Music Composition from Louisiana State University, as well as a Master of Music Performance degree and a Bachelor of Music degree from Northwestern State University. While I will mostly be working with the percussion section, I will be working throughout the entire organization, and I’m looking forward to getting to know you all. I am looking forward to working with all of you, and I cannot wait to see what we can create together!
Fork ’Em Demons!
Items Needed Items Needed for Performances for Performances
Black Athletic Crew-Length Socks
(available for purchase from the TBS store)
Black Marching Shoes
(available for purchase from the TBS store)
SON Summer Uniform Shirt
(provided by NSU Bands)
SON Summer Uniform Shorts
(provided by NSU Bands)
Items Needed Items Needed for SON
Rehearsals for SON Rehearsals
Instrument
Water Bottle
(water will be provided; please fill with ice and water prior)
Charged Smartphone
UDB Pro App
(login information will be given to you during camp orientation)
Tonal Energy Tuner App
USB Battery Pack Binder
(to keep all music organized)
Sheet Protectors Stick Tape
(white electrical tape for battery members)
Demon Heat Color guard
Color Guard Rehearsals
during the Fall semester:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
3:30-5:20 p.m.
SON Practice Field
Tuesday & Thursday
5:00-7:00 p.m.
Health & Human Performance Gym
Color Guard Courses
must sign up for all three:
MUS 1310 01N #10274
MUS 1300 45N #10270
MUS 1300 01N #10268
We’re excited to kick off another season and even more excited to have each of you as part of it. This year is about growth, connection, and building something meaningful together and it starts with you.
To Our New Members:
Welcome to more than just a team you ’ re stepping into a program built on collaboration, creativity, and shared purpose. Starting something new can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. You’re surrounded by people who want to see you succeed.
Come into camp ready to learn, ready to grow, and open to new challenges The habits and confidence you build in your first year can shape your entire experience here and beyond Between now and August, continue strengthening your fundamentals and staying connected to your training When you arrive, be ready to take that next step we can’t wait to see what you bring to the floor
To Our Veterans:
Welcome back. Take pride in what you ’ ve accomplished and use that momentum to push forward. This season, we ’ re building on our foundation with three clear focuses:
Sustained Excellence: Continue raising the standard in everything we do performance, work ethic, and accountability
Stronger Unity: Create an environment where every member feels valued, respected, and included Our differences are what make this program powerful
Balanced Success: Your growth as a student matters just as much as your growth as a performer Academic success isn’t separate from this program it’s part of it Staying focused in the classroom ensures you can continue doing what you love here
Bring your energy, your leadership, and your willingness to evolve. This group sets the tone for what’s possible.
This season is about more than routines and performances it’s about building a culture that lasts. Show up ready to work, ready to support one another, and ready to make this year unforgettable.
We’ll see you in August!
Color Guard Fees
may be paid via credit card using the QR to the left New Members: $275 Returning Members: $175
Demon Dazzlers
Welcome to The SoN! It's Brandi, and I can't wait to get started on what I'm sure is going to be another amazing season! To my new Dazzler members, here are some tips and advice from me and some Dazzler alumni:
Take in every moment you can, be active within your group, take advantage of the social opportunities Son and NSU provide.
Cherish every minute (yes, even the HOT ones), they go by too fast.
Tell yourself “you can do this!” If you commit to striving for excellence in and out of this organization, you will not only be making yourself into a productive member of society, but also elevating your group while you are here. Recognize and continue to build on the legacy of The Spirit of Northwestern.
Positive energy is contagious! Let’s leave the negative energy elsewhere!
GO TO CLASS! You are here as a student first.
To my returning Dazzlers, thank you for all the hard work, dedication, and love you've poured into this organization. Let's continue to build on the legacy and integrity of the Demon Dazzler program for future generations. We had a goal of competing at College Nationals and we did it! And we'll do it again! I can't say enough how proud I am of all our accomplishments and growth. I am extremely excited for this upcoming year, there's no limit to what we can do. The work IS worth it!
Dazzlers Fees may be paid via credit card using the QR to the right All Members: $387.00
Demon Dazzler must sign up for all three:
MUS 1310 01N #10274
MUS 1300 48N #10273
DAN 1180 01N #10098
Dazzlers Rehearsals
during the Fall semester: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 3:30-5:20 p.m. SON Practice Field Tuesday & Thursday 7:00-9:15 a.m.
CAPA Dance Studio, Room 132
Hey SON!
Twirlers
My name is Daynie, and I am the Senior Feature Twirler for the SON! I am so excited to get this new season started. The NSU Twirlers have doubled in size, and we are ready to create some amazing choreography for the 2026 shows!
Here’s a little advice I have for all members of the SON:
Keep up with your classes! As much as we love band, our top priority is getting that degree so go to class, stay on top of your assignments, and try not to procrastinate. Look on the bright side! Studies show that even forcing yourself to smile can boost your mood. So if you ’ re having a rough day, find the small things that can turn it around.
Finally, don’t forget that we are a family! If you ever have questions, need help with classes, or just want someone to study with, the SON is full of people who have your back!
From our Junior Feature Twirler, Ainslee:
To incoming band members at NSU, my biggest piece of advice is to come in with an open mind and a willingness to grow. Being part of the Spirit of Northwestern (SON) is a wonderful experience that will challenge you, push you, and give you some of the most memorable moments of your college career. Stay disciplined with your time, be prepared to work hard at rehearsals, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. The friendships you build and the pride you feel performing together make all the long practices worth it. Take it all in, support each other, and remember to have fun you ’ re part of something really special.
We are so excited for this season and can’t wait to see all that we accomplish together Let’s bring great attitudes, support for one another, and let’s make every performance something to be proud of Here’s to a year full of growth, unforgettable memories, and representing the Spirit of Northwestern with excellence see you on the field!
And as always, FORK ‘EM DEMONS!!
Twirlers must sign up for all three:
MUS 1310 01N #10274
MUS 1300 45N #10270
MUS 1300 01N #10268
Twirler Rehearsals during the Fall semester: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 3:30-5:20 p.m. SON Practice Field Tuesday & Thursday 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Health & Human Performance Gym
Twirler
Fees
may be paid via credit card using the QR to the left
All Members: $75.00
Spirit of Spirit of Organizations serving CAPA & the...
Northwestern Northwestern
Kappa Kappa Psi - Theta Nu
A national honorary service fraternity for college band members that operates exclusively in the field of college and university band programs. The fraternity is built on brotherhood through service, while striving to present themselves as role models through excelling in musicianship, leadership, and service.
Tau Beta Sigma - Eta Pi
The national honorary service co-ed soroity that proudly serves the NSU band program on and off the field. Through service activities, Eta Pi is able to strengthen its bond through sisterhood.
National Association for Music Education
NAfME works to promote the importance of music education, foster the best possible school music programs across the nation, and advance music education as a profession.
Do I need to have a physical to participate Do I need to have a physical to participate the Spirit of Northwestern the Spirit of Northwestern this form will need to be completed and uploaded to Teamworks via the QR code in the letter to the left
Yes - Please read and complete no later than July 1, 2026
To download the Physical Examination Form, scan this QR code
Students living in University Place I or II, The Columns, or Varnado will automatically have their names forwarded to the director of housing with the appropriate move in date. Because dorm staff is limited, move-in times and dates cannot be adjusted. We thank you for your understanding.
Band Camp will begin with registration at 1:00 p.m. in CAPA (see pg. 33) on YOUR MOVE-IN DATE and continue until Friday, August 14
Coordinators, Drum Majors, Support Teams, Percussion Section Leaders, Color Guard, Dazzlers & Twirlers
August 4, 2026
Begins: 10 a.m. & Ends: 1 p.m.
First-Year NSU Woodwind & Brass Members
August 6, 2026
Begins: 10 a.m. & Ends: 1 p.m.
Section Leaders & All Percussion Members
August 5, 2026 Begins: 10 a.m. & Ends: 1 p.m.
Returning Woodwind & Brass Members
August 7, 2026 Begins: 10 a.m. & Ends: 1 p.m. When Do I move When Do I move Into My Dorm Into My Dorm
Are you on the housing list? Scan the QR code to the left. If your name is not on this list and you are living in the dorms (or listed as not needing housing), you will need to contact band@nsula.edu
PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT HOUSING DIRECTLY ABOUT BAND CAMP EARLY MOVE-IN
When & Where do I When & Where do I register for Band Camp register for Band Camp
Camp registration will take place at the Dear School of Creative & Performing Arts (CAPA). Registration begins at 1 p.m. on the same day as your assigned move-in to the dorms. A map below shows the route as you approach NSU from the west (I-49).
When & Where do I When & Where do I
register for Band Camp register for Band Camp
From I-49, travel east on University Parkway until you reach the NSU campus. Turn right on to Central Avenue and continue to proceed south. About ¼ mile, CAPA is on your right hand side, however, parking will be in the lot on the left (see street-level map below.)
Once parked, registration will begin in the Hanchey Lobby of CAPA (see yellow star above) beginning at 1 p.m. You will conclude your registration at the Bill Brent Band Hall.
Are Meals Provided Are Meals Provided During Summer Band During Summer Band
The dining plan will not start until August 15, 2026. Students on the university dining plan should prepare to purchase meals if they plan to eat at Iberville Dining Hall.
What is the Attire What is the Attire for Summer Rehearsals for Summer Rehearsals
Because student safety is our top priority, our camp schedule takes the hot Louisiana weather in consideration. Outside rehearsals are typically held in the morning and in the evening. The weather during these times will require students to be mindful of the heat that exists. With this in mind, students should consider wearing shorts, a t-shirt, hat,sun glasses, and tennis shoes with socks and sunscreen is highly encouraged.
During inside rehearsals/sectionals, the rooms we utilize can be cool to cold. Students who are ‘cold-natured’ should consider having a pull-over or light sweater available.
In addition to the attire, In addition to the attire, what should I have for each rehearsal what should I have for each rehearsal
Rehearsal Gloves
(required for all brass players using school-owned instruments)
Instrument
Water Bottle
(while water will be provided, please fill with ice and water prior to rehearsal)
Charged Smartphone
UDB Pro App
(login information will be given to you during camp orientation)
Beam Music App
(login information will be given to you during camp orientation)
Tonal Energy Tuner App
USB Battery Pack
What will I need for What will I need for gameday performances gameday performances
Black Performance Gloves
(available for purchase from the TBS store)
Black Athletic Crew-Length Socks
(available for purchase from the TBS store)
Black Marching Shoes
(available for purchase from the TBS store)
SON Summer Uniform Shirt
(provided by NSU Bands)
SON Summer Uniform Shorts
(provided by NSU Bands)
SON
Maintenance Items
Cork Grease
Rotor Oil
Valve Oil
Tuning Slide Grease
Chapstick
Long Black Socks
Practice Gloves (Beaded)
Performance Glaves (Non-Beaded)
Percussion Wristbands
Color Guard Tape (Black or White)
SON
SON Sling Bag
SON Tank Top
SON Family T-Shirt
SON Cler Bag
SON Spirit Socks
Reeds:
Clarinet: Vandoren
Clarinet: Rue Lepic
Bass Clarinet: Vandoren
Alto Sax: Rico (3.0)
Alto Sax: Vandoren (3.0, 3.5)
Tenor Sax: Rico Royal (3.0)
Tenor Sax: Vandoren (3.5)
Black Marching Shoes: (Pre-Order Only) (Deadline to order via TBS: Wed. 8/12/2026
Merchandise Items
SON Keychain
SON Button
SON Spirit Wristband
SONglasses
Game Day Tickets for Family & Friends
(only available on game day in the CAPA hallway)
Prices are available online at: https://taubetasigma-etapi.square.site/s/shop or by scanning the QR code on this page
To place orders in advance or throughout the marching season, scan the QR code to the left
Alma Mater Alma Mater
Oh, Alma Mater here today
We for thy lasting blessings pray, We know not where our paths may go, But, thou’ll uphold us still we know, Unchanging thou, ‘mid changes vast, Unswerved from ideals of the past, Steadfast and true, our watchword e’re shall be To thee, our Alma Mater, Loyalty!
Fight Song Fight Song
Go ye Demons take the field, Northwestern Demons never yield. So, fight Demons win tonight, Victory is on our side!
Go! Fight! Win!
Purple and white shall ever reign Filling the air with battle strain. So, Demons forever stand And fight for dear old Demonland.
