In front of the East Texas A&M music building

Instrumental

Unleash Your Musical Potential

As part of the East Texas A&M Department of Music, you will have the opportunity to participate in exceptional instrumental ensembles performing a wide variety of music.

Wind Ensemble

The Wind Ensemble is the premier large instrumental group at East Texas A&M University, made up primarily of undergraduate and graduate music majors. Under the direction of Phillip L. Clements, the ensemble performs cornerstone wind literature, contemporary works, and chamber wind repertoire while commissioning new pieces from leading composers such as David Maslanka, John Mackey, and Julie Giroux.

The group has appeared at major conventions including the Texas Music Educators Association and the College Band Directors National Association, with notable performances at Carnegie Hall and on a ten-day tour of Germany and Austria. Recent recording projects include Convergence and Traveler.

Symphonic and Concert Band

The Symphonic Band and Concert Band are comprised of undergraduate music and non-music majors who have demonstrated an outstanding level of musicianship and a commitment to excellence.

The mission of the Symphonic Band and Concert Band is to create a high-level musical experience for the performers and to prepare teachers for careers in music education through exposure to challenging new works for wind band along with those works considered to be the “cornerstones” of wind literature.

Jazz Ensembles

East Texas A&M features two outstanding Jazz Ensembles and multiple jazz combos led by Mr. Jack Courtright. Performing several concerts each semester, these ensembles provide opportunities for students to perform a uniquely American style of music that will further prepare them for careers in music education or performance. The Jazz Ensemble has performed at Jazz Festivals in New Orleans, with the Dallas Jazz Orchestra and has featured numerous guest artists. Both large Jazz Ensembles and jazz combos are open by audition to performers of all majors.

Pride Marching Band

The Pride Marching Band is East Texas A&M's largest and most spirited student organization, serving as musical ambassadors for the university and community. Performing at all home football games and exhibitions across Texas and beyond—including the UIL State Marching Band Contest, Bands of America Super Regional in San Antonio, and Grand Nationals in Indianapolis, The Pride is known for its visually and musically outstanding performances. Open to students from all majors and states, the ensemble continues to innovate with cutting-edge design and electronic elements in each show.

Pride Marching Band interest form
Pride Marching Band Auditions

Color Guard

The Pride Marching Band Color Guard is based on a foundation that a college marching band can produce a product that is both musically and visually exemplary. The Pride draws its membership from the entire student body, representing most majors on campus. The color guard rehearses approximately 6 hours per week and is a for-credit course. Scholarships are available for color guard members regardless of major. Contact the band office at [email protected] for more information.

Pride of the Court Basketball Band

The Pride of the Court is a highly spirited ensemble–selected by audition–to perform at men's and women's basketball games throughout the season. Comprised of some of the finest musicians and students from the university, the ensemble also performs at postseason Southland Conference and NCAA Tournament games. Auditions take place in early October and consist of both a prepared and a brief sight-reading excerpt. Instrumentation includes all brasses, a limited complement of woodwinds, drum set and accessory percussion. In addition to supporting Lion Athletics, the Pride of the Court performs at several other events as ambassadors of the university.

Marching Band FAQs

I’m not a Music Major. Can I still become a member of The “Pride”?

Absolutely! The “Pride” is made up of students of all majors from across the university.

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As a Non-Music Major, can I still audition for concert or jazz ensembles?

Absolutely! We would love to have you audition for one of the many outstanding ensembles offered by ETAMU University Bands. Please send an interest email to [email protected] to notify the band staff. Auditions for these ensembles take place the weekend before classes begin. Audition music is generally posted 4-6 weeks before auditions. Please check the “Current Student Resources” tab on the Music Department webpage for audition material. Audition material for these ensembles will be posted on or before July 1st for the Fall semester, and on or before November 1st for the Spring semester.

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Are scholarships available for participation in The “Pride”?

Yes! Stipends are available for non-music majors based on audition and ensemble instrument needs.  Stipend amounts increase each year a student  participates as a member of the ensemble.  Please contact the band faculty for additional information.

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How much time does being a member of The “Pride” take?

The “Pride” only rehearses three days per week. On Mondays from 7:00-9:00 PM, then Tuesday and Thursday from 12:30-2:45 PM. The Drumline, Front Ensemble and Colorguard each have a one-hour sectional outside of rehearsal time. The band only performs at home football games (approximately 5 games per season), and select exhibitions. On games days, there is a brief stadium walkthrough rehearsal for halftime timing, to coordinate with the Lion Dance Team, Cheerleaders, etc.

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Is there a cost to be a member of The “Pride”?

There is a minimal fee which covers the cost of most of the gear you will need (Ultimate Drill Book membership, band polo, band dry-fit t-shirt, baseball cap, end-of-season banquet ticket, etc.). Beyond the band fee, members will need to purchase correct shoes, and may purchase a “Pride” jacket, additional cold-weather gear, etc. A complete listing of expenses is published in the Summer Band Information Packet, which is annually distributed on or before June 1st.

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When do marching band rehearsals begin?

“Pride Week” for all members (including percussion and color guard) is tentatively scheduled to begin on Monday, August 19th.

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Do I have to audition to become a member of The “Pride”?

Music majors who have already been accepted into the Music Department are automatically members of The “Pride”. Students majoring in other academic disciplines are asked to complete an informal audition for a member of the marching band staff. This audition consists of a brief musical excerpt (or two), of your choice, which demonstrates your range, technical and lyrical playing. We would love to have you on campus as our guest for your audition. If this is not possible, a video audition can be completed by clicking HERE.

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What about auditions for Drumline, Front Ensemble or Color Guard?

Prospective percussion and color guard members can complete a video audition by following the instructions in the section above labeled “Non-Music Majors”. Percussionists should contact Lauren Teel, our marching percussion instructor ([email protected]). Those interested in Colorguard should send an email to [email protected].

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What do I do to get started?

Please fill out The “Pride” Marching Band Interest form HERE. You will be added to our email and mailing list, and receive updates from the University Bands Office.

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How do I register?

After your successful audition, you may enroll in one of the following courses: MUS100M (for brass and woodwinds) – MUS 100D (for percussion) – MUS 100G (for color guard)

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When can I move into my residence hall?

Early move-in takes place on the first day of “Pride Week”.  The Music Department covers the cost of your residence hall early during move-in. A link to the electronic Early Residence Hall Move-In form will be circulated in the Summer Band Information Packet, which is distributed on or before June 1st.

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Contact Us

  • P.O. Box 3011
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