Super Symphonic

Like the Human Jukebox and the Jazzy Jags, the Southern University Symphonic Band is a staple in the school’s prestigious band history. The Symphonic Band has been established for over a century, although it did take a brief hiatus in the 1970s and early 1980s. 
Founded by former Associate Director of Bands, the late Carnell L. Knighten, the band has been thriving for the past 30 years. This ensemble is composed of several different sections making it a more detailed group. Each section is divided up into subsections, which helps create a distinct sound that Southern has gradually made it own. 
The Symphonic Band is vastly known for their performances with instruments such as the Piccolo, Flute, Alto Saxophone, Clarinet, etc. Currently, the band is led by Associate Director of Bands Brian K. Simmons. 
Director Simmons has been leading this band since 2015, and during the past six years, he has gone from preparing the majority freshman band to handling the department’s top ensemble, the wind ensemble. When asked about his experience with the band, Director Simmons says “This has been and continues to be a learning experience for me as well as the musicians. I am a student of the game, so I try to find new and innovative ways to reach them and get them to tap into their maximum potential.” 
Insinuating that working with these students is one of the best moments for them and himself, Simmons says that “Helping and getting to see a student grow is always a reward [in itself],”. 
The Symphonic Band has played at a multitude of events all over Louisiana such as local high schools, concerts, the Honor’s Day Program and Spring Commencement. Focusing on more classical pieces, the Symphonic Band has given astounding displays of musical talent to the student body and the community. 
Some of their most notable compositions are Tchaikovsky ‘s “1812 Overture” and “Liturgical Dances” by David Holsinger. With pieces like these, Simmons says that he hopes the music can “tell a story to the audience”. 
What makes this ensemble different from the marching band and jazz ensemble is that they are “a bit more intimate,” according to Simmons. While the Human Jukebox focuses on playing various genres of past and present pop charts, and the Jazzy Jags being more focused on jazz pieces, the Symphonic Band is geared towards an indoor setting playing compositions from all periods of music. 
Like any other organization on campus, the band is dedicated to their craft and what they represent. Holding rehearsals Monday through Thursday, these students learn practical music skills. When asked Director Simmons states “Unlike many subjects in school, a student cannot cheat on music. If you don’t practice, you don’t know it! It requires much practice and time management.” As Simmons alludes to, being a part of the Symphonic Band has certain requirements like any other campus group. 
For future events, Southern University students can see the band at their annual Spring concert that is held every April, which is a showcase of all ensembles such as the Southern University Brass Choir, Southern University Symphonic Band, and the Southern University Wind Ensemble. 
If any student who are interested in learning more anout the Symphonic Band, they can reach the Associate Director of Bands, Brian Simmons by emailing him at [email protected] or visiting his office, Room 119 in the Issac Greggs Band Hall. If a student wants to audition for any instrument position, they can call the band department at (225) 771-3528 and schedule an audition.

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Super Symphonic