Now, what's a scramble band?

Now, we are The William and Mary Pep Band, and also a scramble band. But, you might ask, what is a scramble band? That kind of sounds like something I would do to my eggs, not something I would want on my football field at halftime. Well, A scramble band is a kind of like a boring high school marching band, only with a better sense of humor. Instead of spending hours learning how to get from dot to dot and take the right step size, we run from dot to dot like wildmen, also known as scrambling. This allows us to quickly learn a new show each time we are on the field. The other main distinguishing feature between scramble bands and what you could do as a freshman in high school is that scramble bands perform with the help of a script. The script is full of jokes, satire, and parody. Topics up for discussion are anything and everything, from campus culture to world events. While the script is read, the band scrambles, and then ends up in a form that will usually identify with the topic or joke. Then the band plays a song that goes with the joke (usually). The end result is a halftime show that is less organized, more fun for the members, less time consuming (so you can do all your other clubs, you overachieving W&M student), and more entertaining.

*disclaimer = many of us enjoyed our time in marching band, and did not actually hate it.

Where you can find us

The William and Mary Pep Band can be found mainly at home football games in the fall, and basketball games in the winter. We have also been known to make an appearance or two in support of the soccer teams. And you never know, we could always show up at some other sporting event or anywhere around campus, so keep your eyes peeled.

Membership

Membership in the Pep Band is open to anyone, no audition required! As long as you can make your instrument play, we will welcome you with open arms. Everyone from all-state musicians to those that haven’t played since middle school is welcome.

Membership is entirely voluntary, and you are not required to attend every single event (though it is encouraged!). There will be required rehearsals leading up to shows when we will be performing at halftime. We do request that you let us know when you will be absent, so we can plan accordingly.

Hey, I think I like these crazy people...

Made it this far, and still interested in joining the best musical ensemble on campus? Send us an email, find us at an Activities Fair, or at one of many sporting events! Also, here is the Pep Band Constitution, for those who are interested.