Auditions

Prospective members of the featured twirlers and drumline are required to perform an audition, as there are limited numbers of spots available in these sections. Audition information is available below. Students who do not successfully audition for the feature twirler or drumline, but who also play a wind instrument are encouraged to join PNNMB’s wind section.

FEATURED TWIRLERS

The UNC Charlotte Twirling Program aims to enhance auxiliary and visuals in the Pride of Niner Nation Marching Band. The program seeks up to 3 talented, experienced baton twirlers to serve in the role of Feature Twirler.  Feature Twirlers will perform at all Home Football Games and additional performances throughout the year. Feature Twirlers are encouraged to have a presence in the realm of competitive baton twirling to serve as inspiration for twirlers to come. Scholarships are available.

Once selected, Feature Twirlers will be given the opportunity to renew their spot for the next eligible season without re-doing the application process, so long as the expectations of performance, character, attendance, and academics have been met in the previous season, at the discretion of the University staff. 

Prospective Members should be prepared to submit audition information by March 28, 2025.

  1. Complete the Written Application, including the links to the following two videos.
  2. Submit 1 compiled Video of Twirling Experience (3-6 minutes in length)
    o Include competitive routines, performances, etc.
    o Showcase 1, 2, 3 baton (and 4-baton if applicable) elements
    o Suggested 1-baton tricks to include: 3+ spin- vertical/horizontal; bodywork
    (splits, leaps, etc.); illusion/walkover tricks- double elements preferred.
    o Suggested fire baton (1-3 batons)
    o A portion of the video should include choreography performed to original music
    o Video must be submitted via an “unlisted” YouTube link
  3. Submit 1 Video of UNC Fight Song Performance
    a. Feature Twirlers will perform the choreographed fight song together at all pep
    rallies and on field performances.
    b. Please learn this routine to the best of your ability and submit your recorded
    performance
    c. Video Instruction can be found here: Link
    d. Fight Song Music can be found here: Link
    e. Video must be submitted via an “unlisted” YouTube link

Applicants will be notified of the selections within 1-2 weeks of audition deadline.
The University will provide Feature Twirlers with a stipend to contribute to the cost of one
costume. Costumes will be designed and approved by the Twirling Coordinator and Band Staff
prior to purchasing.
Twirlers will be responsible for purchasing a warm-up, tights, shoes, and accessories.

​*ANY QUESTIONS CAN BE DIRECTED TO MRS. MELISSA HEYWARD – TWIRLER COACH

Drumline

The 2025 Rep Packet is live. That folder contains all of our exercises, pregame, street beats, grooves, and stand tunes that we play all season. The only thing it does not contain (yet) is any of the halftime music, but that will be added as it is completed. 

You should submit a video audition by Sunday, June 8th. You can find the instructions for submitting a video HERE. 

Once your submission is received and viewed, you will receive some comments and directions as to what to prepare for the in-person audition. 

There will be two options for an in-person audition: July 12th & July 26th. On these days, there will be sectionals happening, and you can sign up for an individual time slot. You do not have to attend both days, but you are welcome to!

I know you get bombarded with emails from the University everyday, and asked to fill out all sorts of surveys and what not – but this one’s important! Because I am a nerd for forms and spreadsheets, I ask that you fill out the CLT_DL25 Info Google Form, and help me to plan for numbers and instrumentation for the season!

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out (Mr. Nick Nichols)!

Happy Drumming!

Colorguard

There is no audition to join the colorguard. All students are welcome to join. Please contact Mr. Brandon Nichols for more information.

Winds (Brass & Woodwinds)

There is currently no audition requirement to join the wind section of PNNMB; however, a part-placement audition is required for the instruments utilizing divisi parts (piccolos, clarinets, alto saxophones, mellophones, trumpets, and trombones). Audition music and instructions will be sent to students who have completed their 2024-2025 PNNMB Commitment Form. Auditions are held in Robinson Hall.