Dear New & Returning Members of the Wingate University Band Program,
The inaugural season for the Spirit of the Gate Marching Band was filled with many great experiences and memories. I am very proud of our accomplishments and am extremely excited for the upcoming season.
For those I have not met yet, my name is Joseph Girgenti, and I proudly serve as the Director of Athletic Bands. As a member of Wingate’s Class of 2015, I am honored to serve my alma mater in this capacity. Prior to teaching at Wingate, I spent nine years teaching band and general music to students in PreK through 12th grade.
Please contact me if you have any questions regarding the Spirit of the Gate or the Wingate Band program overall.
Marching Band 101
Community & School Events
Bulldog Beat Marching Band Competition
When: Saturday, October 4, 2025
Registration: Band registration closed on September 12, and tickets are now available.
Wingate University and the Spirit of the Gate Marching Band are proud to host its annual Bulldog Beat Marching Band Competition.
Schedule
4:45 - Director Check-in Begins
5:00 - Gates Open
5:30 - National Anthem - Performed by TBD
5:35 - West Cabarrus High School - Warm Up
6:00 - West Cabarrus High School - Performance
6:10 - Cuthbertson High School - Warm Up
6:35 - Cuthbertson High School - Performance
6:45 - Lancaster High School - Warm Up
7:10 - Lancaster High School - Performance
7:20 - Weddington High School - Warm Up
7:45 - Weddington High School - Performance
8:00 - Spirit of the Gate - Warm Up & Exhibition Performance
8:20 - Awards Retreat
Spirit of the Gate Band Day
When: Saturday, November 1, 2025
Registration: This is a free event, however registration is required by Saturday, October 18. Register using the button below.
Join the Wingate University Spirit of the Gate Marching Band for the full college band experience for our 2nd annual Band Day!
During this event, you will:
- Rehearse with the band
- Meet current members
- Enjoy a tailgate lunch before the game
- Participate in pre-game traditions and performances
- Perform during the game and at halftime
High school seniors interested in majoring in Music, may also have the opportunity to take a lesson with our applied faculty and complete a Scholarship Audition.
Please contact Mr. Joseph Girgenti, j.girgenti@wingate.edu, with any questions.