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History in the Making
We are thrilled to announce the arrival of the inaugural UTRGV Marching Band!
The UTRGV Marching Band is the university's inaugural spirit band to accompany the UTRGV Football Program, consisting of 150 enthusiastic students, is not just a musical group but also a community united to make history as the first marching band of its kind at UTRGV. The members, led by Ronnie Rios, are comprised of passionate UTRGV students who are the music makers for UTRGV, committed to representing UTRGV and the Rio Grande Valley with pride and excellence, lifting the Vaquero spirit to new height.
Make sure to stay informed about their exciting first year by checking this page frequently.
Behind-the-Scenes
Get to know the talented founding members of the UTRGV Marching Band and learn more about their stories, achievements, and aspirations.
In this spotlight edition, we introduce our next Music Maker, Paul Farris. A freshman in the College of Health Professions, we are proud to showcase an amazing player, and excited student to be part of the founding members of the marching band of UTRGV.
Music Maker Profiles
Welcome to the Music Maker Archive, a tribute to the inaugural members whose rhythms became the heartbeat of our band. They have laid the foundation to create a harmony of success, inspiring future generations to march forward.
Ronnie Rios, UTRGV marching band director, said the 150-member band is the first of its kind at UTRGV and a point of pride all on its own.
The inaugural UTRGV Marching Band performed, under the direction of Marching Band Director Ronnie Rios, as the closing act for the Pigskin Jubilee on Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023. The UTRGV band performed at the Bobby Morrow Stadium in San Benito and the PSJA Stadium.
Support the Marching Band
Be part of UTRGV history by supporting the UTRGV Marching Band's first-year journey. Our new marching band members are a group of passionate and hardworking students who are eager to represent UTRGV and the Rio Grande Valley. By donating to the marching band, you are not only supporting their musical endeavors but also their academic success and personal growth. Every dollar counts and every donation matters. Make a donation today!
Interested in Joining?
To join the UTRGV Marching Band, please complete the interest form below and we will contact you with more information about the auditioning process. If you have any questions, you can email us at marchingband@utrgv.edu.
What are the requirements?
- Be a current UTRGV student in good standing or a new freshman or transfer student admitted and enrolled at UTRGV before auditioning. The next round of auditions will take place during Summer 2024.
- Play a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument, or be interested in participating in the color guard.
- Have good time management skills and be prepared for three rehearsals each week, as well as game day and event attendance.
- Pursue a UTRGV undergraduate or graduate degree. All majors welcome – no music major requirement.