Arkansas' Band of Distinction is the 200+ member marching band at ATU. Dedicated to both the advancement of the university culture and to music education, ABD is comprised of students from almost every major across campus. The marching band performs 2-3 different halftime shows per year ranging from exhibition-style shows to patriotic music.
The ABD performs at all home games and at exhibition events hosted by area high schools.
"Pregame" is performed as a traditional style show that includes all of our important ATU music. Our halftime performances are in the most modern corps-style concept and include fast-paced music and drill with high velocity marching. We offer a modern Color Guard concept, a traditional twirling line, and a feature twirler position as well. The drum line plays in the most modern style with the highest quality new Yamaha equipment. Our wind players enjoy brand new marching low brass instruments, horns, and piccolos.
ABD rehearses at the new state-of-the art dedicated marching practice facility dubbed "ABD Field." This asphalt field was designed expressly for the sole use of marching band. The storage facility houses all of our equipment and instruments and is humidity controlled. The new tower is 38 feet tall with internet and electricity for sound system and recording of the band. This facility was opened in the fall of 2012 and is located on the Northwest corner of campus near Chartwell's Tennis and Softball complex.