Pep band

A pep band is an ensemble of instrumentalists who play at events, usually at basketball games, with the purpose of entertaining and creating enthusiasm in a crowd.

Pep bands typically don't use primarily orchestral instruments (double reeds, strings, etc.

Pep bands have been in existence for a very long time, however their origins are vague and hard to find.

Pep bands usually have a repertoire that consists primarily of rock and pop music, with styles such as jazz, R&B, rap, funk, and movie themes also fairly common.

Pep bands will also sometimes perform their school's songs (most commonly their alma mater and fight songs), and the country's national anthem (e.g The Star-Spangled Banner, O Canada) prior to the start of a game or event.