Important! If you are a rookie brass or woodwind player who is planning to march in 2009 and have not been contacted by a section leader yet please let Dr. McCutchen know as soon as possible – mattmccutchen@gmail.com . He’ll be sending out the audition material soon and wants to make sure it gets to as many people as possible. Vets, if you haven’t done so already, please contact your section leaders to let them know your plans for next year. We want to make sure to reserve a spot for all returning members.

Dear 2009 HOT Marching Band,

The new handbook is up and I hope all of you will take time to read through it over the next couple days. Your Student Executive Leadership and I have gone through every page to make sure that all of the information is accurate and up-to-date.

New Marchers – this handbook contains a lot of information that you need now – camp dates, audition procedures, dorm check-in, etc. If you have not yet been contacted by a section leader please let me know.

Veterans – As you read through you’ll note that we have made a handful of small changes. None of them are earth-shattering, but there are a couple of procedural issues that you’ll need to be aware of (only black/brown sunglasses at games, etc).

I’m very much looking forward to meeting all of you and getting started on this year. Have a wonderful summer, and if you have questions don’t hesitate to contact me at mattmccutchen@gmail.com.

Go Bulls!
Dr. McCutchen

(Click here to download the handbook)

Dr. McCutchen has compiled a “Frequently Asked Questions” document to answer any and all questions you may have regarding the USF Herd of Thunder Marching Band.

Please click here to download this document.

Band Camp Schedule 2009

August 14 – 15  Student Leadership Workshop
August 16 – 21  Pre-Season Camp (See Schedule)

SUNDAY, AUGUST 16
12:00–3:30pm Camp Registration Theater 2
5:30-6:45pm HOT Band Meeting Theater 1
7:00-9:00pm Large Sectionals Large Sectional Location

MONDAY-THURSDAY, AUGUST 17-20
12:00- 4:00pm Sectionals
4:00-6:00pm Dinner Break
6:00-10:00pm HOT Rehearsal Fowler Field

FRIDAY, AUGUST 21
12:00-3:00pm Sectionals
3:00-4:30pm Lunch Break
4:30-7:30pm HOT Rehearsal Fowler Field
7:30-9:00pm Dinner Break
9:00pm HOT TALENT SHOW!!!

Regular Weekly Rehearsal begin Aug. 24
Mon & Wed – 6:00-8:30 pm
Fridays of Game Weekends – 6:00-8:00pm

Please note: this information is subject to change per the director’s discretion. Any changes will be officially announced via the website and/or e-mail. Question? Contact Us

We are pleased to announce that Dr. Matthew (Matt) McCutchen has been hired as the new Associate Director of Bands & Director of Athletic Bands at the University of South Florida. Dr. McCutchen recently earned a Ph.D. in instrumental conducting and music education from Florida State University. He earned an MM in conducting from Virginia Commonwealth University and a BM in music education from Furman University. His background also includes ten years as an educator in the public schools in Virginia and Georgia. Much of his experience as an athletic band director was gained while serving as an adjunct music faculty at Virginia Commonwealth University. During that time he not only taught percussion and other courses, he was responsible for the athletic band program. While earning his PhD, he served three years on the staff of the FSU Marching Chiefs. Dr. McCutchen brings to the HOT Marching Band and the USF Band Program a consistent record of excellence achieved throughout his career.

Welcome to USF, Dr. McCutchen!

Congratulations to the USF Winterguard for making WGI Open Class finals 2009, and breaking top ten in the world in April!

Welcome to the new Herd of Thunder website! Please take a second to have a look around.