Department of Fine and Performing Arts
University Bands
Feel the Rhythm. Find Your Connection.
Billy Bennett, Director of University Bands.
bbennett@bowiestate.edu
301-860-3783
Ready to make music, build lifelong friendships and be part of a Bold tradition? Complete the interest form to take the first step.
At Bowie State University, our bands bring campus to life through electrifying performances, musical excellence and HBCU pride. As the heartbeat of the university, we unite students, alumni and the community through a shared love of music, history and culture.
From the energy of the marching band to the artistry of symphonic and jazz ensembles, the Symphony of Soul creates unforgettable moments on campus and throughout our communities. Rooted in discipline, collaboration and HBCU tradition, our musicians carry the Bowie Bold spirit wherever they perform.
Ranked No. 9 HBCU Division II Marching Band — Red Lobster Band of the Year rankings
One Symphony. Many Sounds.
Symphony of Soul Marching Band
We Bring the Energy to the Field
The Symphony of Soul marching band captures the passion and spirit of Bowie State University. From R&B to Go-Go, our band explores diverse sounds while bringing character to every arrangement. Our performances combine musical finesse with precision and attitude. This kind of energy cannot be duplicated. and can only be performed by the originators. For our members, soul means putting passion and purpose behind every note and rehearsal.
Our discipline carries from band camp through the season, turning preparation into masterful performances that connect with the campus community and beyond. Whether we’re on the field or in the stands, come see us perform and experience the full energy of the Symphony of Soul.
Symphonic Wind Ensemble
We Bring the Music to the Concert Hall
Bowie State University’s Symphonic Wind Ensemble showcases the concert side of our symphony by bringing musicians together through shared preparation and performance. Our collaborations included the “Magnificent Symphonies of Soul” joint wind band concert with Morgan State University and a joint symphonic band concert with DuVal High School. These performances connect our student musicians across institutions and create opportunities to learn through collaboration.
Our ensemble offers audiences another perspective on our musical talent and compliments the energy of our marching traditions. Through concert performances, our students carry forward the dignity of an ancient art while honoring a long lineage of musical scholarship through the precision of their craft. Join us for a concert and experience the artistry of our Symphonic Band Ensemble.
The Jazz Band
Discover the Artistry Through Harmony
The Symphony of Soul marching band captures the passion and spirit of Bowie State University. From R&B to Go-Go, our band explores diverse sounds while bringing character to every arrangement. Our performances combine musical finesse with precision and attitude. This kind of energy cannot be duplicated. and can only be performed by the originators. For our members, soul means putting passion and purpose behind every note and rehearsal.
Our Jazz Band brings another dimension to the musical legacy of our Symphony of Soul. Our history includes sharing a stage with India Arie at the Strathmore Theater and recording Duke Ellington’s “Come Sunday” with Grammy Award winner Raymond Reeder. These experiences reflect our commitment to musical precision and authentic collaboration.
We Honor Our Roots and Carry the Spirit Forward
We carry a legacy that began in 1978 under Larry E. Davis. Originally known as Supreme Enterprise, our band grew through determination, commitment and university pride. Generations of musicians have shaped a culture rooted in discipline, precision, fellowship and the expressive traditions of HBCU band culture.
Our music and movements bring connection among those who hear us. Our motto, “Nos Es Unum,” meaning “We Are One,” captures a culture built on unity and pride at Bowie State University.
Our Students Build Skills That Enrich the Journey
The Symphony of Soul helps our students develop the discipline, time management and flexibility they need to succeed academically and grow as well-rounded individuals. Through rehearsals, performances and travel opportunities, they learn to balance responsibilities, collaborate with fellow musicians and stay committed to their academic and musical goals.
I have developed discipline, time management, and adaptability, especially when balancing academics and band responsibilities or adjusting to unexpected changes during performances.
— Carlos Abreu II, Class of 2028, Bachelor of Science in Biology, Tuba Player
Along the way, they build friendships, strengthen their leadership skills and create lasting college memories. Being part of the band enriches their college experience while helping them grow as musicians, students and leaders. If they want to join the band, complete our interest form to get started.
Meet the People Behind the Music.
Billy R. Bennett, director of University Bands and music coordinator at Bowie State University started his career as a Band Director in Scotland Neck, NC where he literally put together the chairs, music stands and painted the walls to rekindle the instrumental music program at Brawley Middle School. While at Brawley he assisted at Southeast Halifax High School where the band won numerous competitions and awards. From there he relocated to Leggett, NC where he held a simultaneous position as Director of Bands at North Edgecombe High School and Phillips Middle School. Read more about Billy Bennett.
Other Leaders
Michael Simmons, assistant director of University Bands
Jacqueline Collins-Smith, program operations specialist
Celebrate our Achievements.
Three consecutive CIAA Rep Your Band Challenge victories from 2024 to 2026 headline our recent accomplishments. Our performance résumé also includes an appearance in The Jacksons’ “Can You Feel It” music video, an NFL halftime performance with Wale and I’Anna Crawley, and the 2024 National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade. Other notable engagements include the Washington Commanders’ name reveal and a performance with Master P and the No Limit Soldiers at DAR Constitution Hall.