As our Alma Mater reminds us, “the red and black shall ever wave on high for ASU,”
and for more than 95 years, A-State Bands have been an essential part of our university.
A Legacy of Musical Excellence
The Arkansas State University Bands have been an integral part of campus life for
more than 95 years. While music was present at A-State from its earliest days, the
first organized band was formed in 1929 with 16 members under the direction of Guy
French, who served as both a student and the first Director of Bands. The band later
merged with the university’s newly formed ROTC program in 1936 and continued until
activities were suspended during World War II in 1941.
Post-War Growth and Traditions
In 1946 the band resumed with 26 members under Director James Patty, performing at
events such as the Memphis Cotton Carnival Parade and establishing early traditions
that continue today. Kenneth Appleton succeeded Patty in 1950, leading the marching
band to perform in the 1952 New Orleans Mardi Gras Parade.
The Minx Era and Expanding Opportunities
Donald R. Minx became Director of Bands in 1954, marking a period of significant growth
and recognition. Under his leadership, A-State established band scholarships in 1956
and represented Arkansas in the Inaugural Parade for President John F. Kennedy in
1961. During this era, the band expanded to over 100 members and added a color guard,
with many foundational traditions still alive today.
Continued Excellence Through New Leadership
In 1982, Tom O’Connor became Director of Bands and continued band traditions while
introducing new achievements, including the ensemble’s first performance at the College
Band Directors National Association (CBDNA) Conference. After O’Connor, Pat Brumbaugh
made history in 1988 as the first woman to direct A-State Ensembles, followed by Tom
O’Neal and Ed Alexander, who increased enrollment and led the marching band to its
first FBS bowl appearance in the 2005 New Orleans Bowl.
Modern Developments and Expanded Programs
Dr. Tim Oliver was hired in 2007, and in 2008 the university adopted the Red Wolves
as its mascot. Under Oliver and Associate Director Dr. Ken Carroll, the Marching Indians
were renamed The Sound of the Natural State and many new initiatives were introduced,
including honor bands, workshops, and increased performances. The Wind Ensemble and
Sound of the Natural State continued to perform at prestigious events including CBDNA
conferences and bowl games.
Growth, Innovation, and Leadership Changes
In the 2010s and 2020s, the A-State Bands expanded with new ensembles like the Howlers
Basketball and Volleyball Bands and strengthened programs such as the Symphonic Winds.
The leadership team grew to include additional directors, including Dr. Polly Middleton,
Dr. Sarah Labovitz, Dr. Steven Riley, and most recently Dr. Nicholas Balla as Director
of Bands, as well as Dr. Allegra Fisher and Dr. Andrew Bohn.
