Arkansas Tech University's Band of Distinction
The Arkansas Tech University band of distinction
The Arkansas Tech University Band of Distinction is the 150+ member marching band
at ATU. One of the largest and most visible groups on campus, the ABD is dedicated
both to the advancement of our university culture and to music education. Composed
of woodwinds, brass, percussion, color guard, and majorettes, the Band of Distinction
is a positive source of pride and school spirit for our entire Arkansas Tech University
community.
- The ABD is open to ALL students, regardless of major. In addition to our music majors, we are proud to have representation from every
college on campus. Engineering, nursing, business, and psychology students make up
a large number of the ABD's ranks.
- The ABD is a class, which provides a 1-hr. credit.
- The ABD performs in the BEST venue in the Great American Conference. We are proud
to call Thone Stadium home, where we perform for thousands of fans each game and watch
exciting college football!
- The ABD performs at all home games, select away games and bowl games, local parades,
and as the exhibition band at ASBOA events and marching invitationals.
- The ABD performs 2-3 different shows per year, including pregame, a featured halftime
production, and patriotic music.
The ABD rehearses at our dedicated marching practice facility, the "ABD Field." This
asphalt field was designed expressly for the sole use of marching band. The storage
facility houses all of our equipment and instruments and is humidity controlled. The
band tower is 38 feet tall with internet and electricity for sound system and recording
of the band. This facility was opened in the fall of 2012, and was re-surfaced and
re-lined in the summer of 2025.
If you have ANY questions about participation in the ABD, please contact the ATU Music
Office at (479) 968-0368 or contact Dr. Adam P. Miller, Associate Director of Bands
and Director of Athletic Bands, at amiller91@atu.edu.
2026 membership information
Every new and returning member should complete our online "Commitment Form".
- Woodwinds and Brass: Complete our online "Commitment Form" at your next opportunity. Then, tell your advisor
that you would like to register for the Band of Distinction: MUS 1501-001 or MUS 3501-001.
There are no auditions for woodwinds and brass.
- Drumline: Complete our online "Commitment Form" at your next opportunity. Then, tell your advisor
that you would like to register for the Band of Distinction: MUS 1501-001 or MUS 3501-001.
Auditions for the 2026 season will take place on-campus on Saturday, May 16th from 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. To register for auditions, please click here. Any questions regarding the process for drumline should be directed to ATU Percussion
Professor and Drumline Director, Dr. Cory Fica: cfica@atu.edu.
- Color Guard and Majorettes: Complete our online "Commitment Form" at your next opportunity. Then, tell your
advisor that you would like to register for the Band of Distinction: MUS 1501-001
or MUS 3501-001. Auditions for the 2026 season will take place on-campus on Saturday, April 11th beginning at 9:00 a.m. To learn about audition requirements and expectations, click here (Color Guard) or here (Majorette). Any questions regarding the process for color guard and majorettes should
be directed to Ms. Hannah Leigh Smith: hlsmith626@gmail.com.
RESOURCES
Music Department
