AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- The Eyes of Texas will remain upon the University of Texas - with the school announcing Wednesday that members of the Longhorn Band will be expected to play the song at future sporting events.
The Butler School of Music said on Wednesday that it will also form a second marching band, by Fall 2022, that will not be required to play the songs.
It's the latest in the controversy surrounding the school's alma mater, which prompted a committee investigation that determined the song was not "overtly racist."
According to a news release from the school, the "to be named" University Band will be "a new band concept designed for individuals who want to perform in a marching band, with a focus on leading/directing bands and community engagement." The school says the band will be an academic for-credit course, and the band "will not play the university alma mater or fight song."
“We need to celebrate and nurture what makes UT special, and the Longhorn Band is one of those great organizations that shape our campus culture, elevate school spirit and provide amazing opportunities for our students,” UT-Austin President Jay Hartzell said in a statement. "Our multi-million-dollar commitment over the next five years will support the Longhorn Band in restoring – and even going beyond – its former glory, while also providing strong support for our entire portfolio of university bands."
The Longhorn Band, meanwhile, will "continue to perform at university events, sporting events and high-profile functions, including graduation and alumni ceremonies." The band will have a required repertoire, including traditional university selections such as the alma mater and fight song.
The Longhorn Pep Band, which performs at sporting events including basketball and volleyball games and functions, will also have the same required repertoire, including the alma mater and fight song.
The school says all students involved in any of the bands will receive a performance scholarship of $1,000, with band section leaders receiving a minimum of $2,500. The university says it will continue to honor scholarships for "any rising senior" for the 2021-2022 academic year, including those who "wish to opt out of the Longhorn Band."
