<p>So the last time I visited campus, I saw the band battle against Stanford. I thought it was really cool and decided that I wanted to try and join. Does anyone have any info/personal experience with the Cal Band? On the website, it says that the instrument that I would audition for (the piccolo) is pretty competitive. Just exactly what kind of people would I be up against?</p>
<p>indpndnt1:</p>
<p>Glad to see you're interested in Cal Band!</p>
<p>It looks like next year, as with all years, the competition for piccs and woodwinds in general in going to be high (consider yourself lucky you don't play alto!). However, don't let this scare you away from auditioning. I think Recruiting Comm is already preparing information for events such for Cal Day and CalSO, and don't be afraid to e-mail questions. I'd ask Bob, our director (<a href="mailto:dir@calband.berkeley.edu">dir@calband.berkeley.edu</a>), the Student Director (<a href="mailto:stud@calband.berkeley.edu">stud@calband.berkeley.edu</a>), or the Public Relations Director (<a href="mailto:prd@calband.berkeley.edu">prd@calband.berkeley.edu</a>) [the names of ExComm on the website aren't current]. Also, if you'd be happy or willing to try another instrument, learning low brass (trombone, baritone) or mellophone will GREATLY increase your chances of getting in.</p>
<p>Please continue to consider joining, because I guarantee you, the experience is well worth it. National Champions next year. GO BEARS!</p>
<p>It's also a GREAT way to form a niche of friends.</p>
<p>Some activities are good at creating friends.</p>
<p>From my experiences and what I've heard, band is one of the best and clubs are one of the worst (or rather uneven). </p>
<p>Rally committee people are also annoying.</p>
<p>You have been warned.</p>
<p>"Rally committee people are also annoying."</p>
<p>I can somewhat agree. Most of the rally comm students I've met are somewhat stuck up.</p>
<p>indpndt1 - there's a thread that I started a while ago entitled "Pacesetter of College Marching Bands" that can answer a lot of your questions.</p>