Our Charter: Where It All Began
In 1974, a simple idea struck a powerful chord among former members of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Bands: what if the music, friendships, and traditions didn’t end at graduation?
From that idea, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Band Alumni Association, Inc. (BAA) was born.
Formally chartered on May 1, 1974, the Association was created to support both immediate and long-term needs of Nebraska Bands—while also rallying behind an ambitious goal at the time: helping the Cornhusker Marching Band fund a three-week European tour.
That first wave of enthusiasm was remarkable. A total of 217 charter members joined together, each contributing a $10 membership fee. In true team spirit, half of those funds went directly into the European tour fund, turning shared memories into new opportunities for students to experience the world through music.
From the very beginning, the BAA was built on connection, purpose, and pride.
Purpose of the Band Alumni Association
The Association was founded with three guiding commitments:
- To foster a lasting spirit of camaraderie among all alumni of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Bands
- To actively support the activities, growth, and overall well-being of the Nebraska Bands
- To exercise all lawful and appropriate powers necessary to advance these purposes and ensure the continued strength of the organization
The First Reunion: A Tradition Begins
Just months after the charter was signed, the spirit of the Association came to life at the first official reunion on September 27–28, 1974.
Alumni gathered for the first annual business meeting, reconnecting over shared memories and a shared passion for music. The celebration continued as alumni joined the band for lunch, rekindling bonds between generations of Husker musicians.
The weekend culminated in a memorable afternoon at Memorial Stadium, where alumni attended the Nebraska vs. Northwestern football game. The Cornhuskers delivered a decisive 49–7 victory—an unforgettable backdrop for a weekend built on pride and reunion.
A Sound That Grows Stronger
The following year, the tradition reached a new milestone. On September 20, 1975, the Alumni Band made its first halftime appearance at the Nebraska vs. Indiana football game. With 120 alumni musicians in attendance, the sound of Nebraska Bands came roaring back to the field—stronger, fuller, and more connected than ever.
What began as a shared idea in 1974 had quickly become a living tradition—one that continues to grow, inspire, and bring people together through the enduring power of music.