Join the band!

We believe that being a university student is much more than simply attending classes and taking exams. Our campus is vibrant with concerts, athletic events, and a host of activities that will enrich your experience while at MSU. 

As a member of the marching band you will be at the heart of the university’s commitment to outreach and engagement. You will perform in dozens of events for tens of thousands of people.

But perhaps more importantly, you will be joining one of the largest and oldest organizations on campus with a tradition of entertainment and excellence.

 

The Spirit of the West is open to ALL MSU students with high school band/colorguard experience!!!

Pre Register Now

Pre-Register (without committment) to recieve important membership news and updates! 


Drum Major with Band Color Guard Drumline Practice

Scholarships

$8000 over Four Years!!!

1st Year = $1500
2nd Year = $2000
3rd Year = $2000
4th Year = $2500
TOTAL = $8000
Band Scholarships are offered as tuition assistance
 
Membership Information
 

Open to ALL MSU Students!!!

SotW students represent over 40 different majors from all over MSU and Gallatin College. 

All Members are required to enroll in MUSI 155 to particpate in the band.

Instruments are availabe for use free of charge.

We rehearse on M/W/F 2:10-4:00pm and perform at all home Bobcat home football games.

see our full membership page

Band Camp

Band members move-in early!!!

Band camp is held on campus during the week before the start of classes

Food and housing (for on-campus students) is provided

This is when we learn most of our standard music/drill for the season.

Please try and attend summer Orientation for the best pick of classes (and best schedule to fit with marching band)

-see our band camp schedule-

 

How to Join

To join the band, follow these steps:

  1. Pre-Register now for the band. This will tell us a little about you and get you on our emails list for news and updates.
  2. Attend New Student Orientation in the Spring or Summer (for the best class schedule)
  3. Enroll in MUSI 155 "Spirit of the West Marching Band" During New Student Orientation
  4. Complete our Membership Agreement (available in June)
  5. Come to marching band camp in August of 2024 (Move-in expected on Augst 13). Band try-outs are held during the first two days of camp.
  6. Congratulations--you are a member of the MSU Spirit of the West!

 

Performances

Watch SotW Performance!!!

Our Most Popular Show

Our Most Recent Show

Our Pre-Game Show

2023 Membership Slideshow (Homecoming)

 


Mission

The Spirit of the West is dedicated to your growth as a performing musician. Our mission is to enrich the student life of all of our members through positive production of varied and challenging music, drill, and motion.

Of course, we cannot accomplish this without the commitment of our members as well. All of our members are held to the same standards of practice, participation, and performance.

Go to the SotW Homepage