School of Music
University Bands
Band of Blue (official band page here)
The Band of Blue is the heartbeat of MTSU game day! Under the direction of Bryan Braue and Heather Baker, the MTSU Marching Band brings energy, tradition, and excitement to campus through dynamic performances and original halftime shows at all home football games and select away games.
Membership is open to MTSU students who demonstrate fundamental proficiency on an instrument used in the marching band and strong marching skills. Color Guard, Majorettes, and Dance Team members are selected through auditions.
Whether you’re continuing your musical journey or looking for a new way to get involved on campus, the Band of Blue offers an unforgettable opportunity to perform, build friendships, represent MTSU, and be part of the Blue Raider tradition!
For more information about joining, please see our official band page.
Wind Ensemble
Conducted by Dr. Reed Thomas, The Middle Tennessee State University Wind Ensemble is the premier performing ensemble for wind, brass, and percussion students at the university. Members are selected through audition each semester and comprise the best musicians at MTSU. The ensemble explores the vast range of the wind repertoire by utilizing a flexible instrumentation approach where the repertoire dictates the number of players for each piece. The ensemble is dedicated to performing outstanding and challenging works of diverse musical styles while furthering wind music of artistic and historical significance. Performing three to five concerts each semester, they also tour extensively throughout the region. The Wind Ensemble is quickly becoming recognized as one of the outstanding university ensembles in the country and abroad. They have been invited to perform in Thailand, Korea, Japan, and several European countries. Membership is open to all MTSU students and is based upon successful audition.
Symphonic Band
Conducted by Dr. Bryan Braue, The Middle Tennessee State University Symphonic Band has the distinction of being the band program’s top symphonic ensemble. Its select mission is to provide instrumentalists with an opportunity to demonstrate and develop the techniques and musical instincts appropriate to a symphonic setting. With an emphasis on the distinctive characteristics of the large wind and percussion ensemble, the symphonic band’s repertoire is culled from the rich resources of the wind band tradition. The MTSU Symphonic Band fosters the highest performance standards while offering its members an opportunity to expand their technical, intellectual, and musical horizons. The ensemble seeks to broaden performance and pedagogical skills through the programming of exemplary wind band literature while fostering an interest in the band as an integral part of the American musical scene. Membership is open to all MTSU students and placement is based on auditions held each semester.
Chamber Winds
The Middle Tennessee State University Chamber Winds, conducted by Dr. Reed Thomas, Director of Bands, is a highly select group of musicians within the MTSU School of Music dedicated to the study and performance of wind literature from the Renaissance to the latest compositions. The ensemble was founded in 2003 as an outgrowth of The MTSU Wind Ensemble. Seating is rotated from piece-to-piece, and instrumentation varies, giving each composition a realization best representing each composer’s intent. Membership is open to all MTSU students and is based upon successful audition.
MT Volleyball & Basketball Bands
Bring the energy. Make some noise. Go Blue!
The MT Volleyball & Basketball Bands bring the soundtrack to Blue Raider athletics, energizing crowds, supporting our student athletes, and creating an exciting game atmosphere at MTSU. Through performances at volleyball and men’s and women’s basketball games, students have the opportunity to represent the university, connect with fellow musicians, and be part of the action across MTSU Athletics.
Designed with student schedules in mind, participation is flexible. Band of Blue members can sign up for individual games that fit their availability, making it possible to stay involved in music while balancing classes, work, and other commitments. Participating students receive a stipend for their performance, recognizing their time, preparation, and contribution to the university community.
Membership is open to students participating in the Band of Blue Marching Band. Whether performing in the stands, leading crowd favorites, or helping build momentum during a close game, MT Volleyball & Basketball Band members play an important role in the Blue Raider experience. It’s an opportunity to keep making music, support our teams, and bring Blue Raider spirit to every game!
