Their Plans and discussions came to fruition in 1939, when a group of women in the Tech Band founded a local organization, know as "Tau Beta Sigma," modeled both in principle and idealism after Kappa Kappa Psi.  Just like the Fraternity, Tau Beta Sigma was designed to serve as an honorary, service, and leadership recognition society which provided special social and educational experiences that were useful to women during the days of the "all male world" of collegiate bands.

Unfortunately, just as the group was becoming well established, World War II disrupted future "national" plans.  Tau Beta Sigma continued to grow at Tech, taking over key projects within the band program and was greatly responsible for keeping the Tech Band in operation during the war years.

In June of 1943, the Tech girls petitioned the Grand Council of Kappa Kappa Psi to become a part of the National Fraternity as an active chapter.  Accepting the group under these conditions would have entailed a complete revision of the Fraternity's constitution, an impossibility under wartime conditions when all Fraternity operations were virtually suspended.  Rather than postpone action, it was suggested that Tau Beta Sigma incorporate as its own national organization.

While applying for a national charter, the Tech Chapter encountered difficulties involving Texas State Corporation laws.  In 1945, A. Frank Martin, Executive Secretary of Kappa Kappa Psi, was invited to meet with the women and assist them in designing a plan to gain national status.  During the meeting, it was determined fewer obstacles would be encountered by submitting a charter application for the national organization in the State of Oklahoma.

In order to establish the national organization, the women of Texas Tech Tau Beta Sigma Band Sorority surrendered their name, Chapter Constitution, Ritual, and jewelry designs to the band club at Oklahoma State University in January of 1946.  Moreover, on March 26, 1946 a charter was granted to Tau Beta Sigma.

The Silver Anniversary of Tau Beta Sigma was celebrated at the 1971 National Convention.  The concert march, Tau Beta Sigma, by Donald I. Moore, was commissioned to commemorate the founding of the Sorority.  During the 1970's, Tau Beta Sigma continued to grow.  Participation and service at the local district, and national levels helped to improve the lines of communication between the National Council and the Active membership.  In 1977, all former membership restrictions were removed and chapters were afforded the opportunity to initiate male members of the band.  In addition, the national fee structure was aligned and all former debts of the Sorority were eliminated.  The Gamma Kappa Chapter at the University of Connecticut was the first coed chapter by more that one year.

During the 1980's, Tau Beta Sigma adopted national policies on hazing and alcohol.  The geographical districts were restructured and renamed, and the Ritual of Tau Beta Sigma was revised to reflect the changes in the membership of the organization.  A membership development program was also implemented, providing chapters with suggestions and information on the recruitment and education of Prospective Members and Candidates.

In 1995, a Mission Statement was created and then in 1997 a Strategic Planning Team was formed to allow the organization to participate in long-range planning and goal setting.

Tau Beta Sigma continues to grow and flourish in the 21st Century by reflecting the changes within the membership, society, and the needs of American Bands.