Edward Waters University Invests in Revitalized Band Program with New Instruments, Uniforms, and Expanded Opportunities

Edward Waters University, the Jacksonville-based HBCU, announced Monday a major investment in its marching band program that signals a renewed commitment to music education and student development. The comprehensive initiative includes new instruments, 100 fresh uniforms, and the foundation for expanded year-round musical opportunities.

The university has purchased new brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments to support a credit-bearing marching band while laying the groundwork for symphonic/concert and jazz band programs. According to the institution, this investment is designed to strengthen music instruction, expand experiential learning opportunities, and provide students with more performance and development opportunities throughout the academic year.

President A. Zachary Faison Jr. emphasized that the initiative extends far beyond entertainment value, focusing on holistic student development.

"Our goal is to ensure that band students at Edward Waters University are supported not only as performers, but most importantly as learners.



This investment reflects our belief that strong academic instruction, experiential learning, and institutional pride are deeply connected, and it positions our band program for long-term growth and excellence."

A Fresh Visual Identity

The 100 new uniforms, emblazoned with the EWU mark, celebrate the institution's evolution from Edward Waters College to Edward Waters University. Designed to reflect both tradition and progress, the uniforms will give the program a fresh visual identity heading into the 2026-2027 academic year.

University officials said the new look ties the school's legacy to its current era of institutional growth. The uniforms, along with marching band performances and the debut of winter and spring concert and jazz performances, are expected to be unveiled during the next academic year.

Moses Evans, Director of Bands and a 2004 Edward Waters graduate, praised the initiative, saying it will help position the program for a new era. Under his leadership, the program will emphasize learning outcomes, technique development, applied musicianship, and academic instruction alongside performance excellence.

Looking Ahead

The university plans to increase scholarship support for future band students as it recruits for the Fall 2026 semester. Edward Waters' "Triple Threat" Marching Band, Symphonic Winds, and Jazz Collective are currently welcoming prospective musicians, with auditions scheduled throughout the spring and summer.

For Edward Waters University, this announcement reinforces that the HBCU band tradition remains a vital part of both student development and campus identity, positioning the program for sustained excellence in the years ahead.

Originally reported by HBCU Gameday.