In response to the echo. We are not the Volunteer band. We have a band with volunteers (lower case). 
Tony D'Andreas has not been promoted to Assistant Director of Bands. He remains as he has been for the last 20 years, Director of Bands. I am Director of Athletic Bands Associate Director of Bands.

What follows is the actual communication 

-----Original Message-----
From: Williams Nicole <[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask]
Date: Mon, 22 Sep 2003 08:43:29 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Volunteer Band

Hi Mr. Benkert,

Here are some of the questions that were listed in Dr.
Bromley's e-mail: 

Who participates in the band? Why?

Answer: The majority of marching band students are music majors who are fulfilling a requirement. We do however have a number who do it because they love it.


When do they practice? 
Answer: MWF 2 to 4 and Saturdays on Game day. One week of band camp before school begins (two weeks for colorguard and percussion)

How many people are in the band?
Answer: 108

What is the purpose of the band? 
Answer: This is up to the philosphy of the director and the mission of the university. The UTC marching Mocs fall under the following:

1. Entertainment at football games
2. Education for future band directors
3. community relations and support
4. Recruitment for the university in general and the music department in specific



Who directs the band? 
Answer: I am the director of Athletic bands (including the marching mocs. Professor Tony D'Andrea is Director of Bands. Drum Majors conduct them on the field (they are students).

What is the cost of the band, if there are any travel
expenses?

The band runs on a yearly budget of around $27,000 give or take. We have occassional special purchases or equipment upgrades but the yearly budget stays relatively steady. Travel expenses occur most often with the basketball band, not the marching band. However, we do take busses to exhibitions. We perform Exhibitions at Marching band contests as a way to recruit as well as be seen in public. This year the marching band will perform over 23 times for a total audience of around 30,000 people. Outside of athletic teams the marching band may be the most visible UTC organization. THe students work very hard to be good ambassadors.