Below are the many opportunities to support the University
Bands program. If you are interested in making a gift to help us achieve any
of the below goals, please contact Maria Gutierrez Martin, at 352-846-1211
or mmartin@arts.ufl.edu.
Marching Band Practice Field
Now that we have a spectacular Steinbrenner Band Hall, our greatest need is
a permanent marching band practice field that we can call home for the Gator
Band. The practice field would include a permanent artificial surface field,
a tower, restrooms and lighting. Naming opportunities are available for each
of these areas.
Band Equipment Drive
It is the goal of the University Band Program to purchase all new
instruments for the marching bands to ensure a matching look and sound for
the Band on the field as well as ensure that the marching band members and
their parents do not face the additional financial burden of supplying an
instrument. Instruments are the life-blood of the marching bands. The
constant use outdoors for rehearsal and performances, as well as the
year-round use in the various pep bands necessitates their repair and
replacement on a regular basis. As a result, there will always be a critical
need for funding in this area.
Endowed Graduate Student Instructors
Graduate Student Instructors are vital to the ongoing success of the
University Band Program. They are hands-on educators who work one-on-one
with our students to provide a quality experience. From late August to early
April they perform important teaching functions with the Marching Band as
well as the concert bands. The University of Florida competes nationally
with many other programs for top teaching talent. Providing graduate support
allows us to attract the finest instructors to interact with our students.
Endowment for Band Member Scholarships
Increasing scholarship support for talented young Gator Band members is also
a high priority as the Band program continues to grow. The students are the
strength of the program and competitive scholarship packages for prospective
band members enable us to successfully recruit the most talented musicians
available regionally and nationally.