In the 1940s, the Music program remained under the direction of Major C.D. Kutschinski. The university, known then as State College, experienced fluctuating enrollment as students signed up to participate in war efforts or sought ways to contribute by advancing their education. On September 28, 1946, the Redcoat Band made their first appearance since WWII’s end a year prior, joining the Duke Band to play the national anthem before a football game between the two teams. During this performance, the Redcoat Band had 70 members and hoped to return to their pre-war count of 90. For reference, the marching band today includes over 400 student performers. Also in the '40s, the State College Band assisted the Department of Military Science and Tactics in their memorial to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, playing Chopin’s Funeral March for the service.
The Music Program at NC State has a rich history and we want to ensure future generations of students can continue to create history of their ...