Band Together To Raise Funds For Uniforms

The musicians of the Goin’ Band from Raiderland need new uniforms and are turning to their legions of fans for help.

The Texas Tech Goin’ Band from Raiderland is one of the most distinctive and visible symbols of the university. The musicians need new uniforms and are turning to their legions of fans for help.

The College of Visual and Performing Arts has launched the Band Together campaign to raise funds to buy new uniforms and provide travel support for the award-winning band.

"An immediate goal is to raise money to purchase new uniforms for the Goin' Band," said Carol Edwards, dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts. "The college also is committed to securing a significant endowment to establish future support for the band. Our talented students who dedicate themselves year after year to carrying forward the tradition and excellence of the Goin' Band deserve our support."

In 1925, 21 students dressed in matador uniforms formed the first band. Now, more than 440 members strong, the Goin’ Band from Raiderland is recognized as one of the finest marching bands in the country.

The new uniforms combine the best of the old and a few new twists.

"The new uniform is our basic, traditional jacket design incorporating the scroll which has been a part of the Goin’ Band uniform since 1983, when the university returned to the Matador look," said Christopher Anderson, director of the band. "The breastplate creates several additional looks which can be utilized at exhibition and high school performances where students expect a more modern style. This allows us to create a cutting-edge look while celebrating the history and heritage of the Matador style which has become synonymous with the Goin’ Band from Raiderland."

The current uniforms are 12 years old and worn. New uniforms cost about $500 each. Special one-of-a-kind commemorative gifts will be given to those who give to the Band Together campaign. For more information on how to donate to the Band Together Campaign, go to www.vpa.ttu.edu and click on the Band Together link or call (806) 742-0700.

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