There's nothing quite like a Skull Session at Ohio State. Skull Session originally served as a final music rehearsal for the band prior to their performance on the field, but has evolved into one of the most anticipated game day traditions at The Ohio State University. Doors to St. John Arena open four hours prior to kickoff. The event is free, with seating on a first-come, first-served basis. Our game-day pep rallies draw thousands of fans into St. John Arena for a performance by the OSUMB and remarks from Coach Day and the Ohio State Buckeyes before they enter Ohio Stadium.
If you can't attend Skull Session in person, check out the livestream, which begins two hours and thirty minutes before kickoff.
Visiting high school bands are also a staple of Skull Session, either as a featured performing group or as guests who come to watch — especially as students may be considering continuing their marching band experience at the college level. Band directors are invited to complete the forms below to express interest in having their students attend a future Skull Session. Observation requests are now being taken for the 2024 season, and performance requests are being taken for 2025
Skull Session Observation Application (for 2024)
Skull Session Performance Application (for 2025)