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Vincent R. DiNino, Director of Bands Emeritus, dies at 95 

The Showband of the Southwest’s first full-time director passed away late Tuesday. DiNino, known to many as “Mr. D”, arrived at the university in 1955. He was Director of the Longhorn Band from 1955-1975 and Director of University Bands from 1969 until his retirement in 1985. During his time as director, he took the an all-male, all-white band and fully integrated the band, opening it to all students.  

Big Bertha, the “Sweetheart of the Longhorn Band,” arrived during his first year at UT. DiNino is known for March Grandioso, a trademark fight song that was introduced in 1955, and later for Wabash Cannonball. Originally introduced in 1970, Wabash Cannonball was Coach Darrel K Royal’s favorite tune, and so DiNino had the band play it between the third and fourth quarters of every football game as a salute to Coach Royal who had just won his third national championship. Mr. D also chose the band’s famous cowboy-style uniforms.

“We’ve lost a University of Texas legend, a dear friend to many, and a mentor to generations of Longhorn Band alumni.  Vince DiNino built an athletic band program worthy of the University’s accomplishments on the playing fields.” – Douglas Dempster, dean, College of Fine Arts

“Vincent R. DiNino is to the Longhorn Band what Darrell K Royal is to UT Football!” – Robert Carnochan, director, Longhorn Band