TROY, ALA. (TROJANVISION) — The Sound of the South (SOTS) marching band spent nearly two weeks on campus before classes started preparing for the upcoming season.

From August 2-12, the Sound of the South rehearsed morning, noon, and night, mixing full band, sectional, and marching sessions. Directors schedule band camp just before classes begin so new members can learn the ropes and returning members can polish their skills without the demands of schoolwork.

“Classes, there’s already enough stress and band camp over it,” said saxophonist Gavin Smith. “I can’t imagine having it during classes.”

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For many freshmen, band camp was their first taste of college-level marching—a big change from high school routines.

“It was very strenuous,” said Caden Smith. “It was a big jump from high school to college, definitely a lot more physicality and stuff.”

The week included long hours on the field, sectionals inside long hall, and team-building activities like a kickball tournament. The band also performed at the Odyssey Convocation on Aug. 10 before classes began on the 13th.

The Sound of the South will show off its hard work at the Trojans’ home opener later this month.