Since its opening in August 2019, the John D. White ’70 – Robert L. Walker ’58 Music Activities Center has served as the new premier home to more than 1,300 Texas A&M University student musicians. As one of the major campus construction projects during the Lead by Example campaign, the facility became reality to the tune of more than $40 million. Texas A&M committed $20 million, while $21.4 million was raised through private philanthropy, including a $10 million cornerstone gift from the Ed Rachal Foundation.

The university recognized the need for improved facilities for campus music activities as the programs and school increased in size. “The center has allowed us to bring together the university’s 14 bands, choirs and orchestras under one roof to learn and grow musically and academically,” said Dr. Tim Rhea, director of bands and music activities.

The 70,000-square-foot center houses state-of-the-art rehearsal halls, dozens of practice rooms, instrument storage, group archival rooms, administrative office wings, a reception area, a student lounge and spaces that celebrate the history of Texas A&M music activities. A 1:1 turf replica of Kyle Field also serves as the new practice field for the nationally acclaimed Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band. Many of the center’s amenities don namesakes in recognition of milestone gifts, including Dunlap Drill Field, the Elizabeth A. and Paul H. Motheral ’52 Aggie Band Rehearsal Hall, the Patricia C. and Weldon D. Kruger ’53 Plaza, and the Dorothy and Artie McFerrin ’65 Heritage Hall.

A physical testament to the value of music, the Music Activities Center stands as a powerful symbol of both the university’s musical heritage and its promising future.