The UNC Band was formed in 1903 with the first performance occurring in 1904 at an UNC Baseball game. There have been many individuals responsible for the administration and musical leadership of the band since 1903.

The UNC Bands are dedicated to maintaining the musical traditions and integrity of the University. The concert ensembles have formed an artistic partnership with the Prague Conservatory that led to the formation of a Czech/American wind ensemble during the spring semester of 2003, and have performed at the Southern Divisional conference of the College Band Directors National Association, for conducting workshop sponsored by the Conductor’s Guild, and in Carnegie Hall. The athletic bands have performed in the 54th Presidential Inaugural Parade, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, several bowl games, and numerous ACC and NCAA tournaments games, including the 1983, 1992, 2005 and 2009 National Championship games won by the Tar Heels men’s basketball team.