For high school students dreaming of one day marching with “The Best Damn Band in the Land,” the Ohio State Marching Band Summer Clinic is a can’t-miss event. The 2025 edition of the OSUMB Summer Clinic will be held from July 11-13 at the Steinbrenner Band Center, located on Ohio State University’s campus. Each summer, this unique program brings together talented young musicians from across the country, offering them the chance to sharpen their skills while experiencing the tradition, discipline, and excitement of the Ohio State Marching Band.
Designed specifically for high school students entering grades 10 through 12 during the 2025-26 academic year—as well as 2025 high school graduates—the clinic provides an immersive introduction to the music and marching techniques that have made the Ohio State Marching Band one of the most iconic ensembles in the nation. For students considering an audition for the OSUMB in the future, the summer clinic offers valuable insight into what it takes to perform at the highest level in a collegiate marching band setting.
Over the course of three days, participants will work directly with Ohio State’s world-renowned marching band staff and seasoned student leaders. The program focuses on building core marching and musicianship fundamentals, with special attention given to the military-style marching technique that has become synonymous with Ohio State. Students will have the opportunity to learn from the very people who help maintain the band’s storied tradition, creating an encouraging and interactive environment that emphasizes both personal growth and team-building.
The OSUMB Summer Clinic isn’t just about rehearsing drills or memorizing music; it’s about embracing the culture of excellence that defines the Ohio State Marching Band. Participants will get a first-hand look at how the band operates, from how it prepares for performances to the precision and dedication required for its famous pregame and halftime shows. For many students, this experience provides a preview of life as a member of the Ohio State Marching Band and helps them gauge whether they’d like to pursue an audition in the future.
Beyond the skills developed on the field, students will also build connections and friendships with fellow high school musicians who share their passion for marching band. This collaborative atmosphere creates an unforgettable experience, fostering camaraderie among participants and giving them a taste of the tight-knit community that OSUMB members enjoy during the academic year.
Each session of the clinic is designed to challenge students while keeping the experience fun, supportive, and engaging. Whether it’s mastering a new piece of music, learning complex marching formations, or receiving personal instruction from Ohio State’s accomplished staff, students will leave the clinic with improved skills and a greater appreciation for the art of marching band performance.
More information, including registration details and program specifics, is available on the Ohio State School of Music website. For any student musician who aspires to one day dot the “i” or perform in front of 100,000 fans at Ohio Stadium, the OSUMB Summer Clinic is the perfect place to start that journey.