25 years in the making followed by 20 months of construction, the new home of 15 Texas A&M musical groups is open.

Rehearsals began two weeks ago in the more than $40 million dollar music activities center. Friday was the official grand opening.

Director of bands and music activities Tim Rhea says the marching band's new drill field...with its artificial surface...improves the safety as well as the performance of band members.

The center has 32 individual practice rooms and four rehearsal halls.

More than 1,300 students are involved in Aggie bands, orchestras, and choirs.