2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the Southeastern United States honor band at Troy University.

The clinic was started by Dr. John M. Long, the namesake of the School of Music, and even though this event was started in 1973 it is still going strong with an attendance of 468 high school students from across the South.

“I hope that they take back some some new or improved musical skills and they can take those skills back to their home bands,” says Director of Bands Dr. Mark Walker. “But I hope they take back some friendships and some relationships and kind of a new perspective on playing music and enjoying music with other people.”

Tyler Whitaker, a trumpet player that came with his band from Georgia, says that he is having an experience he will never forget.

“The overall experience was amazing,” says Whitaker. “It’s something that you never get to do every day. It is going to be on my record forever.”

The students learned from four guest conductors from around the nation and one guest composer who happens to be a Troy Alum.

The John M. Long School of Music prides itself on being a driving force in music education for that reason many of the students in attendance consider coming to Troy.

“I heard they have a really good program,” says Whitaker. “Amazing program, amazing people, kind people, a lot of hard-working people. Honestly it’s on my bucket list. It’ll be one of my schools, one of my top 10.”

For the full story watch Cailey’s report.