On to vict'ry, strike up the band!: a history of the Auburn University band program from 1991 to 2021

This thesis is an historical account of the band program at Auburn University from 1991–2021. The Auburn University Band Program has experienced a long history of rich traditions and continued excellence, so much so that the school’s fight song even contains the line “On to vict’ry, strike up the band.” What started as a small ensemble accompanying military exercises on campus in 1897, has grown into a band program that is respected both nationally and internationally. The renown of the program at Auburn has increased significantly in the past thirty years through the work and commitment of Directors of Bands, Johnnie Vinson and Rick Good. The athletic bands have also seen significant improvement and received recognition through the work of John Roscigno, Tim Kelley, Greg Byrne, Rick Good, Troy Breaux, Doug Rosener, Corey Spurlin, and Nikki Gross.

Since 1991, the concert bands have performed at American Bandmasters Association (ABA) conventions twice, a College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA) regional conference, numerous Alabama state conferences, and have toured internationally twice. The marching band has performed at two national championship games, numerous other bowl games, and has been selected for viewing at CBDNA conferences three times due to the precision and innovation of their shows.

Numerous changes have occurred over the course of thirty years: changes to audition procedures, recruiting tactics, uniforms, facilities, pregame performances. However, the stability that has been provided through the lengthy tenures of Johnnie Vinson, Rick Good, Doug Rosener, Corey Spurlin, and Nikki Gross has also been crucial in the continued development and improvement of the bands.