TAU BETA SIGMA

The First Thought of Tau Beta Sigma

 

The first practical idea for establishing a “band sorority” for college and university bandswomen came about during the spring semester of 1939. Wava Banes, along with two of her classmates (Emily SoRelle and Ruth La Nell Williams), took the idea to director D.O. Wiley of the Texas Technological College Band.  The idea, patterned after Kappa Kappa Psi, began to come together the following semester and resulted in the campus organization Tau Beta Sigma.  Much like the Fraternity, Tau Beta Sigma’s purpose at Tech was to serve as an honorary service and leadership recognition society, but was designed especially to provide the important additional social, educational, and other positive experiences needed by women in the band.  The fledgling organization petitioned for recognition as an official campus organization from Dean of Women Mary Doak in spring 1940.

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The Official Beginning of Tau Beta Sigma

On March 26, 1946, a charter was granted by the Department of State for the State of Oklahoma legally establishing "Tau Beta Sigma, National Honorary Band Sorority," later amended to "Tau Beta Sigma." 

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Mission Statement 

We provide exceptional service to collegiate bands and promote equality and diversity, including empowering women in the band profession. We cultivate leadership, educational achievement, music appreciation and community development.

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Vision Statement 

Tau Beta Sigma is a highly respected music organization that creates an equitable and inclusive environment where all band members grow through leadership, musicianship, and service. Through shared values across an engaged membership base, we are empowered to flourish beyond our collegiate careers in all areas musical, professional, and philanthropic. We are committed to fostering connections and creating a meaningful experience for our members, band directors, college communities, and the band world.