Tarleton Bands

Tarleton State University Bands

Welcome

Welcome to the virtual home of the Band Program at Tarleton State University.  I am grateful for your interest in what we have to offer and truly appreciate you taking the time to check us out. We are very proud of the entire music and music education program here at Tarleton and we would like to tell you more about us.

The Band program at Tarleton strives to present a student-musician centered program.  We look for potential in all - regardless of experience and background. If you possess the desire, talent, and a strong work ethic, then you are just what we are looking for. 

The Concert Ensemble portion of our band program is diverse and eclectic.  From the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Jazz Ensembles, and a variety of chamber ensembles, we offer the best of large and small ensemble music worlds.  The diversity of the students participating in the Concert Ensembles makes for a truly unique experience for both our bands and the students. You do not have to be a music major to participate in any of the Concert Ensembles.

The Athletic Bands provide a spirited addition to Tarleton athletic events.  From the well-known The Sound and The Fury, The Tarleton State University Texan Marching Band and Foul Play, our Men's and Women's Basketball Pep Bands, all of the Athletic Bands enjoy spreading the “purple spirit” to all Texan Fans.  Again, you do not have to be a music major to participate!

In every aspect of our program we look to grow all of our students' individual interests and leadership abilities.  Our philosophy is that no matter what your chosen career path is, you will have to lead someone at some time in your life.  All students are able to acquire leadership skills in the Tarleton Band Program - regardless of your major.  Opportunities range from those associated with both the athletic bands (drum major, section leaders, field commanders, etc...) and the concert ensembles (conducting a live ensemble during warm up, conduct the sight reading portion of the Wind Ensemble rehearsal, to actually rehearsing a piece for public performance as a conductor).  These opportunities are very unique at Tarleton and it is how we separate ourselves from the rest.

We are very proud of the Tarleton State Band program and encourage you to look further into our web page by clicking the links that interest you. No matter what your interests are, we have an ensemble for you to continue enjoying music making and meeting new people from around this great campus. As always, your phone calls, e-mails, and visits are welcome. We will personally respond and/or sit and speak with you one-on-one during your campus visit!

Welcome to Tarleton!

Dr. Anthony Pursell
Director of Bands

Current News

Second Annual Invitational Band Festival With Frank Ticheli Set For March 2012

The Second Annual Tarleton Invitational Band Festival with world-renowned composer, Frank Ticheli will be held on the Stephenville campus on Thursday & Friday, March 29-30, 2012.  Click here for a promotional video.  More information will be posted as it becomes available.

Composer Samuel R. Hazo to Lead Tarleton Invitational Band Festival III in 2013

Composer Sam Hazo will be the composer-in-residence for the 3rd Annual Invitational Band Festival in March 2013.  Working alongside with Mr. Hazo will be nationally acclaimed music educators and adjudicators Dr. Robert Grechesky of Butler University (Indianapolis) and Dr. Frank Tracz from Kansas State University.  More information will be made public in early April 2012.