Florida Poly Band

Florida Poly Band Florida Poly is a small, selective, STEM, public university – the only top ranked university of its kind in the state of Florida, and the Band reflects the identity of the university’s creative, singularly uncommon community.

A Florida Poly Kind of Spirit

You’ve seen other university bands performing at tailgates and football games.

You’ll see the Band performing at hackathons, humans vs. zombies battles, esports tournaments, and community events that inspire and entertain. Through the exceptional – and often underestimated – student talent, the Band can drive satirical acts of creative hilarity that might annoy the kind of formal university bands that march in precision … but that’s perfect for Florida Poly.

With an eclectic mix of band, orchestra, and rock and roll musicians, the Band is a proud, quirky group that both masters the collective sound of Phoenix pride and unabashedly embraces the unique contrasts of the student body.

Florida Poly students are focused on innovating, building, and excelling at the highest levels. The Band unapologetically pairs creative intensity with STEM intellectualism by cultivating a connected community of music lovers that can entertain, laugh, and fuel the energy of the Florida Poly environment.

You won’t see the band stepping in time to a single snare drum, rhythmically advancing onto a field, and ultimately fanning out into a carefully architected formation – that’s for the other guys. Under the vision and leadership of Dr. Kathryn Miller, vice provost for student affairs, the band fuels Florida Poly’s vibrant community through the power of music, props, musical revelry, hilarity, and a good amount of dancing and scramble running. This band knows how to have fun, develop expressive and powerful sets, and, as a tight-knit group, move an audience.

Led by veteran band directors Brandon Bangle and Robert Cook, the band provides a musical outlet for talented students to express themselves on campus. The band, which formed in the fall of 2020, boasts dozens of members and features a broad range of instruments, including guitars, cellos, trumpets, and even vocalists. It also features the well-known Florida Poly Drum Line, which has can attract a crowd all on its own.

four band members with their instruments

The band meets weekly to practice, hone its sound, and have a good time. With fun formations and a style all its own, the band has quickly become a quirky and irreplaceable part of the Phoenix family.

Application to Join the Florida Poly Band

Students can apply to be part of the Florida Poly Band simply by contacting Derek Lower . A formal audition is not required. However, musical experience is preferred. Students should plan to have their own instruments, but the Band may be able to assist those who are unable to secure one on their own. If you have questions, please contact Derek Lower.

Band Director

Robert Cook

Band director Robert Cook began teaching band in 1998 and has helped countless Florida middle and high school students strengthen their skills and expand their love of music.

Drum Line and Band Director

Brandon Bangle

Band director Brandon Bangle began teaching music education more than a decade ago. While he trained as a violinist, Bangle has learned to play all of the instruments played in traditional bands. At Florida Poly, he focuses much of his attention on the Drum Line.

Questions?

Questions about this team or want to join? Contact Derek Lower, Assistant Director of Campus Recreation.