In 1966, Louisiana Tech University director of Bands, Joe G. Sheppard, started the Ark La Tex Band Conference as a service to area band directors, who had been requesting help and advice on various aspects of their profession.
The Conference consisted originally of two days of concerts and clinics presented by nationally recognized conductors, soloists, and clinicians, and featured a concert by the Louisiana Tech Symphonic Band.
In the late 1970's, the conference was enlarged to include the Ark La Tex High School Honor Band, made up of the best high school students of the region and conducted by an outstanding guest conductor. The students met for three days of intensive practice followed by the final concert of the conference.
Currently, the tradition continues with two honor bands: The Honor Wind Ensemble and the Honor Symphonic Band.