Bands
More than 700 current band members and over 5,000 Band Alumni warmly welcome you to Iowa State University. If you play an instrument, we invite you to become a member of our band program and join that tradition.
The ISU Bands have something for every player's ability and for every musical taste: concert bands, pep bands, jazz ensembles, and the "Cyclone" Marching Band. The eight bands offer more than an opportunity for musical excellence - they also provide an instant feeling of belonging, a chance to participate in the university's most popular organizations, and the opportunity to form life-long friendships. As a member of the ISU bands, you'll be part of a 115-year tradition of musical excellence.
Band Concert Schedule 2025-2026
All-State Workshop
Iowa State University will host an All State Workshop for aspiring students who play Winds, Brass or Percussion. This FREE event will offer students the opportunity to perform for ISU music faculty, receive musical and pedagogical feedback related to their instrument, hone audition skills and develop an audition mindset. The faculty will address individual components of the audition: scales, etudes and solos. There will be ample opportunities to play audition repertoire alongside peers and ISU faculty. The faculty will offer an audition panel that addresses performance anxiety, audition mindset and anecdotes from their own audition experiences. This event is free with registration.
Join us August 30, 2026 from 1:00pm - 4:30pm
Concert Bands
The ISU Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band and Concert Band are open to all students and regularly perform at the 2,600 seat Stephens Auditorium, recognized as one of the finest performance halls in the world. These outstanding ensembles regularly feature world-class guest conductors and soloists.
Jazz Ensembles
Experience creative programming, strong musicianship, and exciting performances with the popular ISU Jazz Ensembles. Our big bands and combos give multiple concerts each semester.
Athletic Bands
The various athletic bands provide spectacular entertainment at all Cyclone football and basketball games. In addition to their precision marching at Jack Trice Stadium, the Cyclone Marching Band normally travels to an away game each year... in addition to a possible Bowl appearance!
Band Auditions
All members of the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, and Jazz Ensembles are selected on the basis of a musical audition at the start of fall and spring classes. There is no audition required for members of the Concert Band. For more specific information concerning auditions, please visit the Concert Bands or ISU Jazz Ensembles.
Admission to the "Cyclone" Marching Band is based on an audition and the vacancies that exist in each section. Early application is advised.
To request further information about becoming a member of the ISU Bands, please email bands@iastate.edu.
Cyclone Honor Band
High School Directors: register your students for the Cyclone Honor Band, Feb. 6-7, 2026.
Band Contacts
Concert Bands, contact Michael Golemo, Director of Bands.
Athletic Bands, contact Christian Carichner, Assistant Director of Bands.
Jazz Ensembles, contact Michael Giles, Director of Jazz Studies.
