Marching Mocs

General Information - 2026

Updated, Feb. 4, 2026

The future of the Marching Mocs is truly exciting - and we want YOU to be a part of the excitement! 

For more than a CENTURY, the marching band at The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga has been one of the most visible representatives of the university, and the catalyst for the energetic gameday atmosphere at Finley Stadium! 

Be a part of the 103rd Edition of the Marching Mocs!

Participation in the Marching Mocs is open to all UTC students & Chattanooga State students, regardless of major. Students receive credit for participation in the class, which meets M/W/F from 5:00 PM - 6:50 PM.

Members of the Marching Mocs are PAID to march! All members are eligible to receive a Service Award ($$$) for completing the season without issue. The UTC Marching Mocs perform at ALL UTC home football games, selected parades, and exhibitions.

All members of the UTC Marching Mocs must be officially enrolled in the course at their respective institution. The course offers both a one (1) hour academic credit and a zero (0) credit option.

We invite you to join us as we work to build the largest student organization on campus!

Questions about the Marching Mocs? Feel free to email UTC Director of Athletic Bands, Dr. Christopher Lawhorne, here: [email protected]

2026 APPLICATION IS NOW OPEN!

Application Deadlines: 
Brass / Woodwind: May 31, 2026
Twirlers / Percussion: April 18, 2026
Colorguard: April 11, 2026

APPLY TO BE A MARCHING MOC - 2026

FAQ - Important Information

How do I Become a Marching Moc?

To be awarded a position in the Marching Mocs, all interested persons must be enrolled in the Marching Band course as a student at either UTC or at Chattanooga State AND pass through the audition process. This audition process is for both Music Majors and Non-Majors, returning and new members. 

You may register for the Marching Mocs, and audition at any time before the deadlines; however, please note that there are certain enrollment requirements.

1. Enroll in Marching Band at UTC or Chattanooga State

Students at UTC must be officially enrolled in course MUS 0030. There is a for credit and zero credit option.

Students at Chattanooga State will need to contact Nicholas Hartline at [email protected] or (423) 697-3257 to enroll.

Regardless of institution, all students must be enrolled in their respective courses to participate in the Marching Mocs.

2. Complete the Marching Mocs Application

The application is where the directors and staff receive all of your information to aid in serving you better before the Audition deadlines. Once complete you will receive more detailed audition information. 

3. Complete the Audition Process

All members of the Marching Mocs must complete the audition process. Deadlines and requirements are different for each section. 

What are the Audition Requirements?

Below are summaries for the audition process for each section of the Marching Mocs. Detailed information will be sent to you after completing the application. 

HELPFUL HINT: MARK YOU CALENDARS WITH IMPORTANT DATES!

Woodwind/Brass:

Students wishing to audition on a woodwind or brass instrument music complete the application, and submit four videos before the deadline of May 31, 2026. More information is provided in the audition packet - available after your application is completed. 

Percussion:

Students wishing to be a part of the award-winning Drumline and Frontline must submit one video of them playing, AND complete the in-person audition May 2, 2026. Prof. Ethan McDaniel will reach out to applicants directly with more information. 

Colorguard:

Students wishing to be a part of the Colorguard will need to submit a video before April 11, 2026 AND complete the in-person audition April 25, 2026. More information will be available to applicants after they submit their form. 

Twirlers:

Twirlers will have an in-person audition with Jenny Hannah [email protected]

The date to have these auditions will be April 25, 2026

Audition Process: In addition to the successful completion of the eligibility and registration requirements, the Twirler audition process comprises 4 categories: Individual routine, Required and additional skills, Across-the-floor movement & Group routine.

Individual Routine: This is your time to show the judges what you do best! The routine should showcase your ability to successfully execute a prepared routine. You will be judged not only on your twirling skills but also on your performance skills, body technique, professionalism, entertainment value, and physical fitness. One, two, and three baton work should be included as well as dance twirl skills. The choreography for your individual routine should demonstrate and showcase your twirling and performance strengths. Entertainment value is important. The routine should be 1:30–2:30 minutes long. No props are allowed. It is important to choose music that is engaging and tasteful. Music selections may have no profanity or questionable lyrics.

Basic Requirements:

• 2 spin vertical
• 3 spin vertical
• 2 spin horizontal
• Toss reverse illusion vertical
• Toss reverse illusion horizontal
• One spin reverse illusion
• Toss cartwheel (traveling side)
• Individual roll section (your choice)
• Basic two baton skills (required skills will be posted)
• Basic three baton skills (required skills will be posted)
• Be prepared to present 5 additional skills of your choice (aerial skills, rolls, contact material, or multiple batons). If you can do walkovers, leap walkovers, double or triple tricks of any kind, please include them.

Be prepared to present 5 additional skills of your choice (aerial skills, rolls, contact material, or multiple batons). If you can do walkovers, leap walkovers, double or triple tricks of any kind, please include them.

Letter of Recommendation: All new prospective tryout candidates must submit a letter of recommendation. This letter should be provided by the Band Director or Auxiliary Coordinator. In the event (and only in the event) that a candidate is not a member of their school’s marching band, a letter of recommendation may be given by their studio instructor. Email your recommendation to Jenny Hannah, UTC Twirling Coach, at [email protected]. All recommendation letters should be received no later than April 18, 2026.

Attire: A twirling costume should be worn for the audition, including tan tights and tan jazz shoes. Full-performance hair and makeup is required. Please limit jewelry to performance earrings that go with the costume. Any questions or concerns about the audition should be directed to the UTC Majorette Coach, Jenny Hannah, at [email protected].

Are there scholarships available? 

All students who audition for the Marching Mocs, a division of UTC Bands, are eligible for service awards and performance grants, regardless of your major. Service awards vary yearly depending on the number of participants in the ensemble. 

Students should note that there are separate awards for Wind Ensemble and other Music Department ensembles, regardless of major. To be considered for additional aid, students will need audition for the Music Department, even if they are not planning to be a music major. Dates and sign-up information can be found on the Music Division webpage. For more information on the admission and scholarship process, visit the UTC Admissions website here: https://www.utc.edu/about/admissions

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Registration and First Year Assistance

Contact Jordan Hicks, First Year Coordinator, for help with registration and any first year issues.