Sound of the Sooners

The "Sound of the Sooners" Basketball Bands stand as two of the Southeastern Conference’s premier collegiate athletics performance ensembles, bringing unmatched energy and spirit to every game. Under the direction of Dr. Eric Shannon, Assistant Director of Athletic Bands, and Marc Mueller, Bands Operations Coordinator, these dynamic groups elevate the atmosphere at every University of Oklahoma men’s and women’s basketball game throughout the spring semester.

Comprised of talented musicians from the Pride of Oklahoma Marching Band and the OU School of Music, the Sound of the Sooners Bands deliver high quality performances that ignite Sooner pride. Blending beloved University of Oklahoma songs like Boomer Sooner, Oklahoma!, and OK Oklahoma with popular hits from every era, the bands create an energetic atmosphere and memorable game-day experience for fans at the Lloyd Noble Center and beyond.

Each March, select members have the privilege of traveling with the men's and women's basketball teams to compete in the SEC tournament and the NCAA tournament (if OU qualifies). These trips offer an exciting opportunity to support the Sooners on a national stage, with lodging, travel, and meals fully provided. Past tournament destinations include iconic cities such as:

• Atlanta
• Dallas
• Denver
• Jacksonville
• Kansas City
• Memphis
• Phoenix
• San Antonio
• San Francisco
• Tempe

Membership in the Sound of the Sooners is a distinguished honor, awarded to students who either (1) audition for and are accepted into a fall semester large instrumental ensemble – The Pride of Oklahoma, Wind Symphony, Symphony Band, Jazz O, or Jazz U – or (2) qualify through a video audition process each October.

During basketball season, the bands meet one hour before each home game for warm-up and a focused rehearsal. Then, in the spring semester, members also meet once per week for class time rehearsals in addition to game-day commitments. This schedule supports musical excellence while balancing students’ academic and extracurricular responsibilities.

MUTE 1090/3090 Section 001; 5130 Section 003
Thursday 3:30pm - 4:45pm
Spring Semester Only

Are you ready to be part of an elite performance group and make unforgettable memories supporting the Sooners? Auditions are open to all eligible OU students who demonstrate musical talent and a commitment to excellence.

NOTE: Membership is now set for the 2025-2026 season. 

If you have questions, please contact Dr. Eric Shannon at es@ou.edu.