Anyone who has ever been a member of the Marching and Varsity Bands won’t hesitate to tell you that the years they participated were some of the most exciting times in their life. There have been trips, concerts, exciting games, and innumerable special events. Highlights include ten appearances at the Rose Bowl as well as performances in Tokyo, Tampa, San Antonio, Nashville, Tucson, El Paso, Birmingham, Shreveport, and New York City.
The Marching Band has traveled to Big Ten stadiums throughout the Midwest and to Lambeau Field for performances at Green Bay Packers games. In Madison, the Marching Band performs weekly in Camp Randall Stadium for more than 80,000 fans during Badger football games. Keeping with tradition, up to 50,000 fans regularly stay after a game ends to enjoy the famous 5th Quarter performance. The Varsity Band provides performance opportunities during spring semester, culminating in its annual Spring Concert at the Kohl Center.
The University of Wisconsin–Madison Bands maintain a high profile among musicians and Badger enthusiasts throughout the region. The Marching Band, Varsity Band, Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, and University Bands give numerous performances at every level, from UW–Madison athletic events to professional music conferences and tours. Auditioned and non-auditioned ensembles are offered each semester for music majors and non-music majors alike.