Capital University announced today that it will launch a new pep band beginning in fall 2026, reintroducing a spirited musical tradition not heard on campus in more than two decades. The pep band will perform at home football games, select athletic contests, and campus events, reinforcing the vibrancy of the student experience and strengthening ties across athletics, academics, and community life.
Open to students from all majors, and accessible to faculty and staff who previously played an instrument, the pep band will be offered as an ensemble course with a goal of 25 to 30 band members. Students who are not Conservatory majors and who participate in the Pep Band or other Conservatory ensembles will be eligible to receive a participation scholarship of $500 per semester.
“Capital’s Conservatory has a remarkable tradition of creative excellence and community impact,” said Tom Zugger, Dean of the Conservatory of Music. “The launch of the Pep Band is a natural extension of that legacy, a high-energy, collaborative ensemble that supports our athletic programs while connecting students across majors and backgrounds. Music builds community, and the Pep Band will bring that joyful, collective spirit to our campus in exciting new ways.”
Capital invites current and prospective students to express interest by emailing Tom Zugger, dean of the Conservatory of Music.
To help fund instruments, equipment, uniforms, and the long-term sustainability of the new pep band, email April Novotny, vice president for Advancement and chief development officer, or make a gift online.
“The launch of the Capital University pep band reflects our commitment to amplifying the student experience through vibrant, high-impact, and community-building opportunities,” said Dr. Jared R. Tice, president of Capital University. “This initiative elevates the extraordinary work of our Conservatory of Music and highlights a century-long tradition of excellence that continues to shape performers, creatives, and educators. We look forward to the pep band becoming a signature part of the CapFam experience.”
A search for a part-time faculty director and part-time percussion assistant will begin in early 2026. Rehearsals and performances will begin with the start of the fall 2026 semester.
Housed within the Capital University Conservatory of Music, the pep band will build upon one of the most distinguished and historic music programs in the Midwest. For more than 100 years, the Conservatory has prepared generations of performers, educators, composers, conductors, and music industry professionals. Today, it features more than 50 ensembles, including its world-renowned Chapel Choir, acclaimed jazz and contemporary ensembles, large-scale orchestral and wind groups, and its nationally recognized music technology and music education programs.