Military training was an important part of the early curriculum at Ohio State, and a band was formed to provide music to the cadets for drills. Organized in 1878, the band was a student led organization until 1896. Gustav Bruder, a professional musician with military band experience, was hired to lead the band. Under Bruder, the band grew in size and began playing and marching for all military and athletic events. The OSUMB has increased in size over the years, from 100 members in 1920 to 225 members today. The last expansion occurred in the '70's. Women first joined the band in 1973 following the passage of Title IX legislation. Today, approximately 20% - 25% of the band's members are women each year.