For my interview in the Inquiry portion of my project, I decided to interview FSU Marching Chiefs Veteran: Angel Purganan. She was one of the Orientation Leaders this summer, and hearing her speak so passionately about having the Marching Chiefs as her “involvement” at FSU really helped sparked my interest in getting involved with this organization. Prior to the interview I made sure to speak to other aspiring Marching Chiefs in order to be kept in the loop about the upcoming dates and times for auditions. I also was informed that you must have a physical examination prior to season, on top of having your medical history and health insurance submitted to the band staff. Most of the people that I talked to were music majors, so that was something I thought I should bring up in my interview with Ms. Purganan since I wasn’t sure if that would be a game-changer during the audition process. I also made sure to search up the Band’s schedules from previous years so that I could begin to plan out my future work schedule at the FSU Bookstore accordingly. Here’s what we spoke about:
· How many years have you been involved with the marching chiefs, and what instrument do you play?
I finished my rookie year of Chiefs last year, and the instrument that I play is the clarinet.
· In your own words, how much of a time crunch would you say being in the Marching Chiefs is?
Chiefs is a SUPER big-time commitment. It definitely prepares you to be able to successfully function in such a tight-schedule.
· How often does the band practice?
We practice 2 hours a day every weekday, and we play at football games on the weekends.
· How do you audition for Chiefs?
To audition for Chiefs as a rookie, you sign up online at http://fsuchiefs.com/news/calendar-of-events/
· What advice do you have for someone getting ready for their audition?
To prepare for the audition and for the football season, I would recommend keeping an open mind and a positive attitude. Confidence is key to success.
· When is Band Camp?
So we move-in about two weeks before classes start for preseason training. That would be considered our "band camp.”
· How do auditions work exactly? What is the process?
You play your music audition on the first day, and the rest of preseason is reserved for marching auditions.
· So are music majors more likely to make it into the Chiefs?
Actually, over seventy percent our members are non-music majors, so the numbers speak for themselves.
· What made you decide to continue being involved with the Marching Chiefs this year?
It's a pretty rigorous process but once you make it through, it's SO much fun! It's such a great community to be a part of and it has so many great traditions too.
· What do you feel people get out of being in the Marching Chiefs?
You'll be able to meet new people, make new friends, and improve your musical and marching technique immensely.