What is the Radford University Pep Band–Athletic Entertainment?

The Radford University Pep Band-Athletic Entertainment is a new, all-student ensemble that performs in support of Radford Athletics, primarily at basketball games and other featured university events throughout the academic year.

The ensemble provides musical entertainment, promotes school spirit, and represents Radford University at athletic and campus events.

Who is eligible for Pep Band Scholarships?

Competitive one-time talent-based $1000 scholarships are available to incoming freshmen and transfer students. Students do not need to be music majors or minors to participate in the Pep Band or apply for the scholarship. Students must be admitted for Fall 2026 in order to apply for the scholarship.

What instruments are included in the Pep Band?

Brass

• Trumpet
• Horn (Mellophone)
• Trombone
• Euphonium
• Tuba (Sousaphone)

Woodwinds

• Flute (Flute or Piccolo)
• Clarinet (Bb or Bass Clarinet)
• Saxophone (Alto, Tenor, or Baritone)

Percussion

• Drum Set (Rhythm Section)
• Multi-Percussion (Drumline)
• Mallets (Drumline)

Rhythm Section

• Electric Bass – applicants will be asked if they read chord changes
• Guitar – applicants will be asked if they read chord changes
• Keyboard / Piano – applicants will be asked if they read chord changes

Can Pep Band scholarships be combined with other financial aid?

Yes. Pep Band scholarship awards may be combined with other forms of financial aid and scholarships, depending on eligibility. The Pep Band–Athletic Entertainment scholarship is in addition to other music scholarship awards.

Do I need to audition?

Yes. A short audition video is required as part of the application. Applicants may upload a pre-recorded video or record their audition directly through the application form.

What are the Pep Band open audition requirements (non-music majors)?

Brass and Woodwinds - Submit a video performance including:

• Major scales: C, F, Bb, Eb, G, D, and A (1 octave minimum)
• Chromatic scale (1 octave minimum)
• A prepared exercise or etude of your choice

Drum Set - Submit a video demonstrating the following styles (approximately 1 minute each):

• Rock
• Funk
• Latin
• Swing

Multi-Percussion / Mallets (Drumline) - Submit a video performance of a prepared exercise or etude of your choice.

Electric Bass, Guitar, or Keyboard/Piano - Submit a video performance of one prepared piece of your choice. Applicants may also be asked whether they read chord changes.

I already auditioned for the Music Major or Minor. Do I need another audition?

Students who have already auditioned and are accepted or the Music Major or Minor do not need to submit an audition video. However, they do need to apply for the scholarship.

What are the participation expectations?

Acceptance of a Pep Band-Athletic Entertainment scholarship requires sustained participation at Radford University basketball games and other designated Pep Band events during the academic year. Specific participation expectations will be outlined for scholarship recipients.

When is the application deadline?

The application deadline is April 15.

How do I apply?

Students interested in being considered for a Pep Band – Athletic Entertainment Scholarship should complete the online application form (see button below). Note: Use your Highlander Portal credentials to access the application.

 

 

Where can I learn more?

For additional details about the Pep Band, reach out to band director David Rivers. For more information on scholarships, please reach out to the Department of Music at 540-831-5177 or department chair Wayne Gallops.