The Coastal Carolina University Band Program officially
began in the Fall of 2000 with the hiring of the first full time, tenure
track, Director of Bands. Dr. James L. Tully had been teaching in the
local school system and leading the CCU Pep Band as an adjunct faculty
member, and was hired to bring instrumental music to Coastal full time.
The
first Pep Band started in 1997 with 5 members who wanted an instrumental
music presence on campus. CCU student Matt Dellinger, along with four
of his fellow students, approached numerous faculty and staff members
about beginning a band. After a couple of brief appearances at Coastal
basketball games, it became apparent that some sort of faculty leadership
was needed. In 1998, Dr. Tully was approached about becoming Pep Band
Director, and held this position as an adjunct faculty member until being
hired on a full time basis in the Fall of 2000.
Since that time, the Band Program has grown into a complete
and comprehensive collegiate band program with two concert bands, pep band,
jazz band and a marching band. There are also
numerous chamber ensembles such as flute choir, percussion ensembles,
brass choir and quintet, and saxophone ensembles. CCU Bands have performed for such prestigious events as the South Carolina Music Educators Conference and Bands of America.
In November 2005, the Coastal Band Hall opened with space
for large ensemble rehearsal, faculty offices, practice rooms, and a percussion
studio. The Spirit of the Chanticleer Marching Band practice field and
storage facility is located behind the Band Hall.
The Coastal Music Department employs the following faculty
members who are involved with teaching in the Wind & Percussion area: Dr. Amy Tully - Flute Dr. Anne Dervin - Clarinet
Jessica Miller - Oboe
Scott Scrivner - Bassoon
Dan O'Reilly - Saxophone
Joshua Tillman - Trumpet
Dr. Tonya Propst - Horn
Dr. Chad Horsley - Low Brass
Kurry Seymour - Percussion