Excellence, Pride, and Innovation are the foundation upon which the ETSU Band Program has been developed. Through the past decades, this program has established itself as a leader in quality presentations encompassing the entire spectrum of instrumental performance. Whether a student is planning a career in music or another field, involvement in the university bands can prove to be beneficial to the quality of their life.
A major asset of the ETSU Band program is its diversity and balance. It attempts to nourish the creative spirit at the level of the individual performer's ability and interest. Regardless of major or ability, there is a place in the ETSU Bands which can fulfill the musical needs of each student. The following ensembles are open by audition to any ETSU student.
Wind Ensemble:
The Wind Ensemble is comprised of approximately 50 of the most outstanding wind and percussion students at ETSU. This ensemble is dedicated to the preparation and performance of the finest traditional and contemporary wind literature. The Wind Ensemble performs regularly both on and off campus, tours annually, has performed at several state, regional, and national music conferences, and has traveled and performed internationally as well.
Symphonic Band:
This outstanding concert band is active both Fall and Spring semesters and is composed of musicians from all schools and departments within the university. Exploring traditional as well as contemporary works for band, this ensemble has continued to grow in its presentation of quality literature. The Symphonic Band maintains an active schedule and enjoys a reputation as an ensemble committed to the opportunity to share in the excitement of the creative process through selection of literature and student conductor experiences.
The "Marching Bucs":
The "Marching Bucs" is recognized as one of the finest collegiate marching bands in the South East. More than 170 strong, this popular organization, comprised of students from nearly every major within the university, combines fatastic spirit and quality musicianship to create its unique form of excitement.
The "Marching Bucs" is the focal point of pride, spirit, and excitement for the university community and the Mountain Empire. In addition to performances in the ETSU Mini-Dome, the "Marching Bucs" make yearly trips to other Southern Conference games, local parades, NCAA Division 1AA Playoff Games, and is often the featured exhibition ensemble at several marching festivals throughout the region. The "Marching Bucs" annually are the proud host of the ETSU Marching Band Classic, and the Bands of America Southern regional Marching Band Championship which are held in the ETSU Mini-Dome.
Creative musical arrangements, traditional and contemporary innovative drill design, outstanding auxiliary presentations, and performance excellence place the ETSU "Marching Bucs" at the forefront of the contemporary collegiate marching scene.
Basketball Showband:
The Basketball Showband brings music and excitement to numerous indoor and community events. The Showband is a select organization of 40 musicians that performs at men's and women's basketball games both on campus as well as at Southern Conference Tournaments and at the NCAA Tournaments. Special musical arrangements and a huge following of band and athletic fans make the Showband contribution to any activity truly spectacular.
Jazz Bands:
The ETSU Jazz Ensemble presents the finest in contemporary and traditional jazz literature. The ensemble has hosted several prominent jazz artists. The Jazz Ensemble presents numerous on campus and off campus concerts, and has traveled to major jazz festivals throughout the United States.
