How can I get involved in music at the Coast Guard Academy?

I'm interested in continuing with music when I join the Coast Guard Academy. What kinds of music programs or opportunities are available for cadets? Are there any bands or ensembles I could join?

The U.S. Coast Guard Academy boasts several opportunities for individuals interested in music. Its Regimental Band and various ensembles, including the Jazz Band and the Windjammers Drum & Bugle Corps, are open to all cadets with musical skills. These groups typically perform at parades, home football games, and formal ceremonies, and traveling to other venues for performances is not unusual. This adds semester-long commitments, so having a balance between your course load and other responsibilities is important.

Also, despite being a military academy, the USCGA values the arts, offering minors in music in addition to the bands and ensembles. This may be worth considering if you are keen on studying music more in-depth during your time at the academy.

Finally, the USCGA also offers Glee Club and Chapel Choir for vocalists, if you're musically inclined that way. The Glee Club, in particular, is a mixed chorus that performs at diverse venues around the region. They have even produced CDs and gone on national tours, so it's quite a robust program.

Remember to check out the specific audition requirements for any group you're interested in. Each group might have unique audition procedures, schedules, or requirements based on the instrument or voice part. Best of luck with your musical journey at the academy!