One of the most important aspects of serving bands is one’s ability to contribute positively to each rehearsal and performance as a musician, and one of the best ways in which to contribute positively is to be proficient at your instrument. Recognizing this, the 2015-2017 National Council sought ways in which to encourage our members to consistently practice their instruments, leading to the development of the For Greater Practice: A Musicianship Initiative program.

For Greater Practice: A Musicianship Initiative is designed to help chapter members serve their bands and bring a more musical approach to community-based projects. This is fulfilled by becoming better musicians through the development of good practice habits, especially with regard to the fundamentals of each member’s musical instrument.

The program addresses the Tau Beta Sigma purposes “To develop leadership through active participation with the band, and through it, to strengthen those traits of conduct, thought, and idealism which characterizes the responsible members of the band” and “To encourage a close relationship between collegiate bands and promote a high average of attainment by the performance of good music and selection of worthwhile projects.” In addition, the program also addresses one of Tau Beta Sigma’s Eight Essential Factors, “Demonstrated loyalty and dependability to those persons and institutions deserving of it.”