History of the East Texas Symphonic Band

The mission of the East Texas Symphonic Band is to raise the awareness and appreciation of wind band music in the East Texas area by presenting both formal concerts and informal celebrations of “the people’s music", and to provide motivation for and encouragement to young musicians to continue making music a part of their lives.

The band was organized in 1988 by Dr. James Snowden. Two concerts were presented during the first season. Today, the band typically presents four concerts each season (November, February, April and May). Admission is $1 at the door for concerts held at the S.E. Belcher Jr. Chapel and Performance Center, with students and children admitted FREE. The May “Pops in the Parks” concert is free to ALL attending.

In 1997, the Band was invited to perform for the 50th Anniversary Clinic-Convention of the Texas Bandmaster's Convention in San Antonio. ETSB was the first “community band” ever invited to play at that event.
In 2002, a special patriotic concert titled “A Tribute to America” was held on September 11. The purpose of this program was to honor the character and spirit of America which has enabled our country to rise above the terrorist attacks and move forward in a positive manner. Guest performers for this concert were members of various area church choirs.

The Band has also played for the Balloon Glow at the Great Texas Balloon Race, Alleyfest, Longview Partnership Banquet, the Judson High School Reunion and most recently at the Dedication of the S. E. Belcher Jr Chapel and Performance Center. ETSB was the only instrumental ensemble to perform at this historical event.

One of the most popular events the East Texas Symphonic Band hosts is the annual “Pops In The Park” concert at Teague Park’s Amphitheatre. It typically occurs the Thursday before Memorial Day and features music from the movies, marches from John Philip Sousa, and tributes to the Armed Forces. It continues to be the most well attended of all the band concerts.
Today the band is made up of approximately 50 volunteer musicians from the East Texas Area. This group consists of adults, many of which are band directors from area high schools, as well as high school and college students. Dr. James Snowden continues to head the band as its Director and serves as a great role model for all the musicians as is proven by being a past recipient of the Texas Music Educators Association's Leadership and Achievement Award.

Dr. Snowden has also transcribed several orchestral pieces for Wind Band including a commission by ETBU for Glinka’s “Brilliant Caprice” and another transcription of “Pototany” by Listz.

The Board of Directors consists of seventeen members. These individuals include both band members and patrons.

The mission of the Board of Directors is to present the symphonic band in appropriate performance settings, and to support the band financially and in any other ways deemed appropriate and effective.