Indiana State University’s Sycamore Bands marked a historic milestone March 28th as they celebrated their centennial anniversary. The event featured a Concurrent Resolution sponsored by State Senator Greg Goode and State Representative Tonya Pfaff which highlighted the profound impact the band has had on campus and across the state over the past century.
The celebration saw Senator Goode and Representative Pfaff read the Concurrent Resolution to students, alumni, faculty, and staff who have played a role in shaping the success of Sycamore Bands. Attendees were also treated to live performances of significant pieces from the program’s rich history, followed by a reception where students and alumni networked with state representatives.
Additionally, Representative Pfaff announced that the Mayor of Terre Haute, Bandon Sakbun, had issued a proclamation to distinguish March 28th as ‘Sycamore Bands Day’. This means that the city of Terre Haute will officially commemorate Sycamore Bands on this day to educate residents about their achievements.
Indiana State University President, Dr. Mike Godard, stated, “I would like to congratulate the Sycamore Bands on reaching their centennial anniversary—a truly remarkable achievement. For 100 years, the Sycamore Bands have not only been a cornerstone of our campus community but have also earned national and state-wide recognition for their excellence in music. I extend my deepest gratitude to both the past and present exceptional staff, faculty, and students who have been the driving force behind the group’s success.”
Founded in 1924, Sycamore Bands has built a distinguished legacy at local, national, and international levels. In 1939, Indiana State University adopted March On as the official fight song for the Sycamores, and in 1964, the band performed for President Lyndon B. Johnson in Indianapolis. Throughout its history, Sycamore Bands has collaborated with numerous living composers and music legends such as Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Aaron Copland in 1978, and have performed internationally including in Tajimi, Japan, in 2001 as part of a sister-city cultural exchange with Terre Haute. Most recently, Sycamore Bands welcomed The President’s Own United States Marine Band in October 2024 as part of their Coast-to-Coast tour.
"Music has the power to connect us across time and culture, and Sycamore Bands has embodied that spirit for a century," said Dr. Melinda Roberts, Dean of Indiana State University’s College of Arts and Sciences. "Sycamore Bands is more than a musical ensemble—it is a family, a legacy, and a symbol of excellence. As we celebrate 100 years, we also look forward to the future of this incredible program.”
Dr. Peggy Moran, Director of Indiana State University’s School of Music, also reflected on the ensemble’s lasting legacy. "Sycamore Bands has brought people together for a century, and today’s celebration honored the students, directors, and supporters who have built this program into what it is today. We are excited to see what the next hundred years hold."
For more information about Sycamore Bands and upcoming events, visit Indiana State University’s website.