The Troy University Symphony Band, conducted by Dr. Mark J. Walker, is comprised of the top 55 - 63 wind and percussion students in the John M. Long School of Music. The ensemble has an active commissioning schedule and regularly participates in commissioning consortia. In 2011, this premiere group completed its first international tour, performing for enthusiastic audiences in Vancouver and at the Whistler Music Festival in Whistler, Canada.
In March 2014, the Symphony Band received the honor to perform the opening concert at the 80th Annual Convention of the prestigious American Bandmasters Association. The Band also performed for the Alabama Bandmasters Association All State Conference in 2017, and in 2018, the Symphony Band performed at the Southern Division Conference of the College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA). Over the years, the Symphony Band has enjoyed an active recording schedule, and has recently produced their latest compact disc, The Troy University Symphony Band – Live! and has regularly provided demonstration recordings for C.L. Barnhouse, Alfred Publications, TRN and others. Throughout its distinguished history, the Symphony Band has recorded chapters for the acclaimed series “The Heritage of the March” and broadcast its own radio program, “Strike Up the Band!” for twenty years on the Southeastern Public Radio Network.
Since 2001, the Symphony Band has performed under the baton of every living member and inductee of the National Band Associations Hall of Fame of Distinguished Conductors.
The Troy University Symphony Band is open to all university students by audition at the beginning of each semester.
For information regarding band scholarships, auditions, or opportunities to support the band program through the University Foundation, please contact Dr. Mark J. Walker, Director of Bands at mjwalker@troy.edu or phone 334-670-3281. The street address is: 102 Long Hall, Troy University, Troy, AL 36082.
