Troy Symphonic Band holds first performance of fall 2026 series

The Troy University Symphonic Band kicked off its fall 2026 performance series last Wednesday, featuring works by Hagen, Grainger, Bennett, Rimski-Korsakov and Marquez.

This concert cycle took 15 rehearsals, some up to two hours long, and an abundance of individual work. The music was daunting, the sounds melodious, yet for the musicians, it was all worth it.

"It's really fun, the students are fun to work with," said Dr. Jerianne Larson, the conductor for the concert and assistant director of bands. "This is way different music than they've played before, and it really challenges them.

"It's a mix of music that was popular 120 years ago, music that's popular now, so it really challenges them across multiple genres, multiple different decades. They have cluster chords going on, and they also have some really nice harmonies as well."

Despite the demanding execution, students said they found peace in the performance.

"Sitting there and being able to play your instrument and have fun, it means the world to me to be able to do that," said Anna Cosby, a senior music education major from Smiths Station, Alabama. "It feels really, really relaxing, like all my stresses just go away.

"Just having fun and playing the music, that's what it's all about."

Members of the audience shared a similar relaxed feeling.

“There was a nice atmosphere to it,” said Ty Williams, a junior music industry major from Madison, Alabama. “I could really tell which parts the band enjoyed playing.

“Coming to concerts like this really relax me and makes me think back to when I used to play when I was in band. It’s super important to go out and support live music, because you can’t get the same experience just listening to a recording.”

Members of the Symphonic Band encourage students to immerse themselves in the arts. The band offers free concerts on campus as a way for students to start.

"We play really hard music," Cosby said. "Go out and support your friends, even if you don't know anyone, go support and listen to some cool music."

Don't worry, there will be more where this came from.

"I look forward to our next concert cycle," Larson said. "Even more music, harder music, and you better hold on."

The Symphonic Band will be back in November for their next concert. To stay up to date with the Troy University bands, follow @troyuniversitymusic on Instagram.