Color Guard
Who are we?
The Color Guard is a premier section within The University of Pennsylvania Band. We are a group of students with a passion for performance, adding on and visually enhancing the production of the Band through spinning equipment–flags, rifles & sabres–and just always having a good time!
Who can Join?
Anyone can join! From incoming first-years to graduate students, we are open to anyone and everyone to join the Penn Band’s Color Guard.
Why Join? (Why should I care???)
The Penn Band’s Color Guard section enhances the visual backbone of the band. We are a group of hardworking and hilarious individuals who share the same love of performing. If you are interested in being a part of the show-stopping, jaw-dropping, fierce and fun section then join the Guard.
How do I join? Is there an audition?
There is no formal audition process to join Guard. Just show up to a Monday Night rehearsal at 6-8, and we can get you plugged in there.
When do we perform? Where do we perform? What is the time commitment?
Guard performs year-long with the Band, at various events. We focus on our halftime performances during football season, but we will be in the stands with Poms during basketball season, and performing at university and community events throughout the academic year. It is a manageable time commitment.
What is the practice schedule? Where do we rehearse?
Similar to the Band’s, Guard has two rehearsals per week in the fall and one in the spring semester, but look out for additional practices & sectionals here and there to work on technique and learn more intricate routines. We practice right outside the Platt House on the grassy knoll area as well as inside of Franklin Field.
What does our uniform look like? What do I need to provide?
Our uniform differs from the Band uniform, with a white top and blue bottoms, and black slip-on shoes. Check out our uniform design on our Instagram page @penn_guard.
Do I have to pay for anything?
Your uniform is included in your annual dues. With this payment, you will have access to the PB’s color guard equipment and your head-to-toe uniform (including garment, gloves, and shoes).
What skills are needed?
Color Guard is a visual performing arts in which dance and movement with and without equipment serve as the foundation. Coordination and dexterity are skills used when using equipment as well as musicality when matching routines to the tunes of the band. Holding a strong stage presence helps elevate your performance to another level.
What previous experience is required? Is there an audition?
No prior experience is required. Everyone starts somewhere. There is no audition, but if you do have experience we would love to see what you can so we can best highlight it within routines.
What equipment will we be using?
There are three types of equipment that will be used: Flags, Auxiliary equipment (Performance Sabres & Rifles), and Poms. Equipment can be borrowed at the beginning of the year, but must be returned by the end of the academic year.
Contact?
Best way to contact us is to DM us on instagram @penn_guard, or email this year’s current section leader Sarah at soburu@sas.upenn.edu or reach out to the band at board@pennband.net
Is it too late to Join?
Nope, we are always accepting new members 🙂 THE MORE THE MERRIER!