The Braswell Percussion Ensemble began with the opening of Ray Braswell High School in August of 2016 as the fourth high school in Denton ISD. The percussion program grew from just a handful of freshmen and sophomores to a roster of 35+ percussion students in just three years. The percussion ensemble held its first “Percussion Bash” in the Spring of 2017, an annual tradition that continues to this day.

After humble beginnings, the percussion program began venturing into the competitive arena in the early 2020’s. They competed in their first Bands of America competition in 2021, their first drumline contest in 2022, and their first percussion ensemble competition in 2024.

Spring of 2025 was a “breakout” season for the Braswell Percussion Ensemble. The group won its first percussion ensemble competition in February, the PAS North Texas Percussion Festival in Forney, TX, and in May they were awarded first place in the Black Swamp Solo & Ensemble Showcase. Finally, in June the ensemble was invited to perform at the 50th Anniversary PASIC as one of the winners of the International Percussion Ensemble Competition.

Members of the Braswell Percussion Ensemble have performed with the Braswell Wind Symphony at the Music for All National Concert Band Festival and the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, as well as with the Braswell Legacy One Jazz Band at the Jazz Education Network Conference.

The Braswell Percussion Ensemble would like to extend a sincere and heartfelt “thank you” to all the students, teachers, parents and volunteers who have helped build the program over the last ten years. We are grateful for our past and look forward to our future.