CHARLOTTE, N.C. - The Johnson C. Smith University International Institution of Sound (IIOS) is gearing up for an exciting 2026 football and performance season! The band was hard at work during its annual Pre-Season Band Camp, preparing new music, refining marching fundamentals, and building the musicianship, precision, and energy that IIOS will bring to performances throughout the year.
This season, IIOS welcomes 89 students to the program, including 22 new freshmen who are beginning their journey as members of the Golden Bull family. We are excited about the continued growth of the program and the strong group of new students joining our returning members. One particularly exciting area of growth is our percussion section, which has experienced substantial growth this year and adds even greater depth and energy to the band's sound.
On Sunday, August 16, the band performed at Have Life Church, followed by its first major road performance on Saturday, August 29, when the Golden Bulls travel to Benedict College. The matchup has a special connection for our program, as Benedict College is the alma mater of JCSU Assistant Director of Bands Mr. Justin Hubbard. The band will close out the month with a performance at Ebenezer Baptist Church on Sunday, August 30.
One of the most anticipated highlights of the season will come in September when IIOS travels to Canton, Ohio, to represent Johnson C. Smith University at the Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic. The trip will provide our students with another opportunity to showcase JCSU on a national stage while continuing the rich tradition and culture of HBCU bands.
The program is also excited to welcome new members of the IIOS staff. Mr. Emil Foster joins us as Assistant Coach for the UntouchaBulls Flag Team, and Ms. Antoinette Green joins the program as our Band Announcer. Additionally, IIOS welcomes a full student media team, led by Communication Arts majors, who will help expand the program's storytelling, digital presence, and coverage throughout the season.
With 89 students, including 22 new freshmen, an expanded staff and media team, and a full calendar of performances ahead, the International Institution of Sound is looking forward to another exciting year of representing Johnson C. Smith University with excellence, pride, musicianship, and Golden Bull spirit.
