The NKU Bands are dedicated to excellence in musical performance as well as the social enrichment of its members. Comprised of both music majors and students majoring in many other areas of study, the Band Program includes Wind Symphony, Concert Band, and the Norse Pep Band.
The concert ensembles rehearse and perform throughout the academic year, giving a minimum of two concerts per semester. Music is selected from a wide variety of the finest in wind band literature. While performances achieving musical excellence are a significant goal of the band program, care is taken to ensure a positive experience - that is, the satisfaction of hard work during rehearsals, enjoyable quality performances of outstanding band repertoire, and the fellowships, friendships, and camaraderie that generally occurs through ensemble participation.
Wind Symphony (MUSE 307) is the flagship concert ensemble of the NKU Bands Program. The ensemble is comprised of approximately 45-50 of the finest wind and percussion musicians in the Music Program. Membership is by audition in August before the fall semester begins. Although membership is mostly music majors, accomplished and qualified performers of any majors are encouraged to audition for Wind Symphony.
Conductor: Dr. Nikk Pilato (pilaton1@nku.edu)
The Northern Kentucky University HeyU Pep Band is a high-energy, viral (10M+ views) ensemble playing styles of rock, jazz-funk, and more. Being a part of the NKU HeyU Pep Band plays a critical role of enhancing gameday environments for the Norse. We pride ourselves in being a unique program that welcomes all majors across all of Northern Kentucky University, having nearly all colleges/schools represented. The band performs at Men’s Basketball, Women’s Basketball, select Women’s Volleyball, and other events as designated.
Members are paid, provided a uniform at no cost, and permitted to work around class schedules for game sign-ups. Compensation is on a per-game basis, and members have the opportunity for paid travel to Horizon League and NCAA tournaments if the teams are successful. Members are required to provide their own instrument (with exception of drum kit, mellophone, baritone, and sousaphone, which are provided by Athletics) and wire music stand.
HeyU Pep Band Director: Will Redden (pepband@nku.edu)
