The Tuscola High School Band has a long history of excellence. From its beginnings as the Waynesville Township Band, it has thrived and become an integral part of the community. Being one of the oldest programs in the state, the band has consistently been considered one of North Carolina’s finest.

Under the leadership of past outstanding directors such as James Crocker, the band received numerous superior ratings at the coveted Bristol, Tennessee championships and performed at President Lyndon Johnson’s inaugural parade. The marching band has also been a finalist at Bands of America national and regional events.

The Tuscola band program, under the direction of present directors Dillon Ingle and Andrew Shelton, consists of over 150 students performing in three year round concert bands, the Marching Mountaineers, percussion ensemble, jazz band, and various chamber groups. The bands consistently receive superior ratings at regional and state events. Tuscola band members represent the school in the all-state and all-district bands as well as participate in many regional, state, and national honor bands including the Bands of America National Honor Band. The Symphony Band performed at the 1996 and 2004 NCMEA State Convention. The percussion ensemble has been selected to perform at the Percussive Arts Society state convention in 1997 and 1999 as well as the Bands of America National Concert Band Festival in 1998. The award winning Marching Mountaineers have been consistent BOA regional finalists and participated in the 2000 Bands of America Grand National Championships.