About the Ocean

The most popular facet of the Texas Southern University Music Department, is the  "Ocean of Soul" Marching Band. This is a versatile ensemble which rehearses daily during the fall and spring semesters to prepare literature for formal University functions, Wind Ensemble concerts, football games, basketball games, parades and other guest performances. The Director of Bands is Houston native Richard F. Lee, a member of the 1969 inaugural edition of the “Ocean of Soul”. Assistant Directors are Darryl Singleton, Clarence Gibson, and Edwin Rose. Lee and his staff infuse an irresistible energy into the students which inspires them to achieve excellence both on and off of the marching field.  

The Ocean of Soul has developed an enviable reputation for its thrilling performances, precision drills, and melodic sound.  Throughout its star studded history, the Ocean of Soul has performed with entertainment greats such as Broadway performers Jennifer Holiday and Ben Vereen, gospel artists Yolanda Adams, Kirk Franklin and Pop Icon Janet Jackson. 

 The Ocean of Soul has also performed before capacity crowds for the Houston Oilers/Houston Texans, Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks, the New Orleans and Galveston Mardi Gras Parades, Texas Gubernatorial Parade, Houston’s Livestock Show and Rodeo, and Houston’s Annual Thanksgiving Parades.  

 The spirit of the "Ocean," the enthusiasm the members have for their music, and the excellence and precision displayed in their performances, are in themselves a guarantee that the members of this unit will have you on your feet!! After one encounter with this musical powerhouse, you will understand the saying, “It’s not the size of the wave that makes you drown, but the motion of the Ocean when it hits your town!”
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Band Ensembles

University Marching Band

The most visible ensemble on the campus, the Ocean of Soul marching band is the spirit of the university. The band performs at university events, both athletic and non-athletic. The band performs standard marching band repertoire. This ensemble is open to all university students thru audition.

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Wind Ensemble

The Wind Ensemble is comprised of advanced brass and wind players. Comprised of mostly music majors, this ensemble strives to develop music skills and techniques that are important to the developing musician. The wind ensemble typically performs adapted works from the standard wind repertoire.

Symphonic band

The Symphonic Band is comprised of Intermediate and advanced brass and wind players. This ensemble strives to develop music skills and techniques that are important to the developing musician. The symphonic band typically performs adapted works from the standard wind repertoire.