<p>If all goes as planned and I get into Duke (fingers crossed), how exactly would I go about getting into the pep band that plays at the basketball games?</p>
<p>I play clarinet and have made the All-State Massachusetts band multiple times. I checked the website and it seems like I just have to show up to be in it. Is it that easy? I would have assumed there would be a ton of talented musicians accepted to Duke lining up for those spots.</p>
<p>My son is a freshman at Duke and is in marching/pep band. It is just as easy as it sounds. If you play an instrument, you’re in. If you’ve had marching experience, you’ll be ahead of the curve. You must be in marching band in order to play in the pep band. Band camp starts a few days before freshman orientation, so you move in early which is a real plus. Band at Duke is much less of a time commitment than band at other Div. I schools but gets a lot of support from the athletic department. By the way, he loves its, especially during bball season. There are two pep bands for basketball, but generally you can attend all home games. Let me know if you have any other questions. If you do decide to attend Duke, the band (DUMB–Duke University Marching Band) has a big presence during Blue Devil Days (for admitted students) and they also send recruiting information during the spring and summer. It is a great way to ease into the university.</p>
<p>Thank you very much for that information. It was very helpful. </p>
<p>Does your son find that it takes up a lot of his time or is it very easy to fit into his schedule with schoolwork/studying and extracurriculars (intramurals, clubs, parties)?</p>
<p>I believe he would say that it is easy to fit into your schedule. He did well academically last semester and managed to do things other than band. The most hectic time was the few weeks when football season and basketball overlap. Now that it is just bball, it is very easy to get everything done. Good luck to you.</p>