The Bands of     

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SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY BANDS have a long and distinguished history. In 1918 Mr. William H. Jackson is credited as being the first band director at South Carolina State College. He was followed in 1924 by Mr. Fred Bugard Payton.Following Mr. Payton (1925-1928) the band was run by students with guidance from Mr. Harold June who also was a student at the time. Following Mr. June was Mr. Earl Davis (1931-1934).  From 1934 through 1943 the band was under the direction of Mr. Reginald Thomasson. In 1943, Mr. Thomasson left and returned in 1949, where he was Director of bands until his retirement. Under Mr. Thomasson were serveral band directors including Dr. CV Troupe. Dr. Troupe is credited with giving the current name to the marching band, as it is presently called "Marching 101." Mr. Marcus Rowland (1966-67) followed Dr. Troupe, as well as Mr. Clifford Watkins (1967-71), Mr. Edwin B. Hughes (1971-73), James R. Sochinski  (1973-75),  and  Mr. Issac Richardson (1975-76) . Mr. Ronald Sarjeant became the Director of bands in 1976, and served in this capacity until 2004.  Under his leadership The Marching, Symphonic and Jazz bands appeared and performed at many conferences, NFL football games, parades, as well as community and university events. Also Graduates of the SCSU band have and currently serve as music educators throughout the state and nation. The present Director of Bands is Mr. Eddie Ellis.

The Concert Band was established to perform at the university, community, and other events. Membership is open to all university students by audition and is offered spring semester.

The Symphonic Band membership is by invitation only. They engage in music ranging from medium advanced to advanced wind compositions.  The Symphonic band’s campus performances are supplemented by periodic tours, convention, and conference appearances.

The SCSU Jazz Ensemble has received critical acclaim for their high performance standards and their creative approach to the Big Band  genre. They perform both contemporary and traditional works. A busy touring and performance schedule is maintained.

The Marching “101”  is a marching band of approximately 380 students  that performs at all home and some away football games. The “101”  strives to achieve and maintain the highest level of  excellence while representing the University. The “101” is  also the largest student organization on campus. Students who wish to enroll must audition by attending a mandatory preseason training session before fall classes begin. For further information and an application call the band office at (803) 533-3691.

The "Pep" Band performs at all home men and women basketball games as well as the MEAC basketball tournament. In addition they also perform during other activities in support of SCSU university events and athletics as their schedule permits.

Auditions for all ensembles except the Symphonic band are open to all students. Contact the Band office for more information. (803) 533-3691.