Do any colleges offer scholarships for marching band?

As a high school junior who plays in the marching band, I'm curious if there are any scholarships specifically for marching band members. Are there colleges that provide financial aid for band participation?

Absolutely, many colleges do offer scholarships for marching band members! These scholarships are often granted through the college’s music department, and they can range from small annual amounts to full-ride scholarships.

For example, The University of Alabama offers the “Million Dollar Band” scholarship program where members can receive varying amounts based on their level of participation and years in the band. Similarly, Michigan State University has the “Spartan Marching Band” scholarships; they offer several awards to members of their marching band. These scholarships are typically merit-based, so your award could depend on things like your level of skill on your instrument, your leadership role within the band, and your academic record.

To apply for these scholarships, you usually have to audition for the school's marching band and possibly for the school's music department as well. Be prepared to perform a solo and to march, and possibly to sight-read music.

Make sure to look for details on each college's music department or marching band website, and don't hesitate to reach out to the band director or to the college's admissions or financial aid offices for more information. A polite email with your questions could be the best way to find out about opportunities that aren't clearly listed on the website.

These scholarships can be a fantastic way to continue your love for music in college while also relieving some college cost burdens, so definitely consider this as part of your college search and application process!