the following was written on the reverse of the "Performing Organization Recommendation/ Evaluation Form", submitted by Professor Strange in support of the band's 1996 application to perform at the Mid-West International Band and Orchestra Clinic. Professor Strange has marked ASB "Superior" in all categories:

It was my pleasure and good fortune to hear the Austin Symphonic Band in Chicago at the 1989 Mid-West Clinic, and in New Orleans at the 1993 American Bandmasters Association convention. Under the direction of their conductor, Richard Floyd, they played a wonderfully varied concert that was the talk of the ABA convention. Their program was played with utmost musicianship (musicianship that is far beyond the grasp of most bands of this type). As one would expect, the interpretation was outstanding, giving all of us added insight into the music that was programmed.

The Austin Symphonic Band has given programs for many of the outstanding music organizations in the United States, among them the Texas Bandmasters Association, the Texas Music Educators Association, the Mid- West International Band and Orchestra Clinic (noted above), and an award- winning television production.

During the years in our profession, I have heard many municipal bands. Very few are of the stature of the Austin Symphonic Band. To my mind, the Austin Symphonic Band is always "worth a listen." I give them my highest recommendation.

[signed] R. Strange