The Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmaster Hall of Fame was established in 1975 through a joint effort between the Alabama Bandmasters Association and the Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu. The John M. Long Band Hall at Troy University houses the Hall of Fame. The inaugural class (1976) consisted of the following band directors: Col. Carleton K. Butler, Pasquale Fransico Bria, James “Jimmy” L. Cowart, Claude Dahmer (Deihmer), Yale Ellis, Dr. Mort Glosser, Williams “Billy” Hrabe, Dr. Wilber “Bodie” Hinton Jr., Herman Helfrich Mohl (Moll), George Van Meter Printz, Carl Schwuchow, and James Lamar Triplett.
David Delisle Black, Jr. 1931-2018
David Delisle Black, Jr. was born on June 9, 1931 in Montgomery, Alabama. He graduated from Sidney Lanier High School in Montgomery, Alabama in 1949. He graduated from the University of Alabama with a B.S. Degree in 1958 and an M.A. Degree in Music Education in 1963. At the University Mr. Black studied with Col. Carleton K. Butler and played with the “Million Dollar Band” as drum captain.
Mr. Black began his teaching career at Baldwin Junior High and Bellingrath Junior High (Montgomery) in 1957. Under Mr. Black’s direction, the Bellingrath Junior High Band performed at both district and state contests and was rated “Superior” or “Excellent” each year from 1963 to 1966.
In 1968, Mr. Black was appointed to the position of Instrumental Music Consultant with the Alabama State Department of Education. He served in this position until 1980. During this 14-year period, Mr. Black attended Auburn University in Montgomery and completed the “AA” Certificate in Administration and Supervision. The focus of Mr. Black’s work at the state level was to improve the understanding between directors and administrators. In 1975, Mr. Black was appointed State Chairman of the Alabama Alliance for Arts Education Committee. In 1980, Dr. Frank McArthur and Mr. Black conceived the idea of starting a tape project for Phi Beta Mu which would provide college teachers an opportunity to train students for the Alabama All-State tryouts. Mr. Black was a member of Phi Beta Mu, Phi Delta Kappa, and a life member of MENC.
Mr. Black was inducted Into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1984.
Jerry Bobo 1935-2019
Jerry Bobo graduated from Fayette County High School in 1953. He received his BS and MA in music education from the University of Alabama. He later earned the Class AA certificate in music education supervision.
Mr. Bobo served as band director at Fayette County High School from 1956 until his retirement in 1991. During his years at Fayette, the band program grew from 54 students to approximately 400. The Fayette County High School Band performed at the Alabama Bandmasters Association State Band Competition Festival 35 consecutive years, earning a “Superior” rating 31 times and an “Excellent” rating four times.
Mr. Bobo served as president of the Alabama Bandmasters Association, president of the Fayette County Teachers Association, president of the Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters Fraternity, was named “Alabama Outstanding Music Educator of the Year,” was winner of “Mac” Award, and was guest conductor of the Alabama All-State Blue Band. The “Jerry Bobo Music Building” at Fayette County High School is named in his honor.
On Mr. Bobo’s birthday in 2017, band alumni surprised him with this celebration.
Mr. Bobo was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1986.
John Bradley
John Bradley is a native of Monroeville, Alabama. He holds the Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts Degrees from the University of Alabama and Certification in School Administration from Alabama State University. At the University of Alabama, he was solo trumpet with the Million Dollar Band and was the leader of the Alabama Cavaliers Dance Band. He also played with the University Symphony Orchestra.
Mr. Bradley has a total of 36 years of teaching experience in the public schools of Alabama. He served as band director in Selma, Mt. Brook, and Hueytown as well as at Monroe County High School and Monroeville Junior High School in Monroeville. His bands have consistently received “Superior” ratings in concert competitions at the district and state levels as well as “Superior” ratings in marching competitions.
The Monroe County High School band twice received Best in Class awards at the Six Flags Over Georgia Band Competition. He also served as Assistant Principal at Monroeville Middle School and Band Supervisor for the Monroe County Schools for eight years. Mr. Bradley has served as President of the Alabama Bandmasters Association, Chairman of District Vll of ABA, and served on the Board of Directors of the Alabama Music Educators Association. He was also appointed by the State Superintendent of Education to serve on a committee to develop the standards for Fine Arts Education in Alabama.
Mr. Bradley served 5 years with the Alabama National Guard Band and 31 years with the 313th U.S. Army Reserve Band, serving 12 years as First Sergeant and Assistant Director. During this time he was the recipient of the Army Commendation Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, and served overseas. He has served as President of Phi Beta Mu Bandmaster Honorary Fraternity and is a member of the Alabama Bandmasters Association, Florida Bandmasters Association, Alabama Music Educators Association, and the National Association for Music Education. Mr. Bradley has been a band adjudicator and clinician in the southeastern United States. Since his retirement, he has worked part-time with the Briarwood Christian School Bands and currently works with the Homewood Band program. He plays trumpet professionally in the Birmingham area. He and his wife Jane live in McCalla, Alabama. They have two daughters and five grandchildren.
Mr. Bradley was inducted Into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 2023. Watch this Legacy Project interview with John Bradley.
Thomas Ivy Brannan
Tommy Brannan is a native of Citronelle, Alabama, where he graduated from Citronelle High School in 1966. He graduated from Auburn University with a BS. Degree in Music Education in 1970. He received his M.A. Degree in Secondary Education from the University of Alabama in 1975.
Mr. Brannan served as band director at Northport Junior High School and Riverside Junior High School for one year before serving as both band and choir director at Riverside for two years. He then went to Tuscaloosa County High School in 1973 where he served as Director of Bands for 27 years until his retirement in May 2000.
At the State Competition Festival, he compiled fifteen “Superior” ratings, eleven over the last twelve years. Additionally, the Tuscaloosa County High Marching and Jazz Ensemble have been consistently rated “Superior” during his tenure. The band has received national recognition by receiving many awards in many sites in the Southeast. Internationally the band has been recognized for its performance in the 1995 New Year’s Day Parade in London, England.
Provisionally, Mr. Brannan has served as both President and Vice-President of the Alabama Bandmasters Association. He has served as District Chairman and Vice-Chairman for seven years. He holds memberships in the Alpha Psi Chapter of Phi Mu Alpha, Phi Beta Mu, the Music Education National Conference, the Alabama Music Educators Association, the Alabama Bandmasters Association, and holds a lifetime membership in the National Band Association.
Mr. Brannan was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 2002. Watch this Legacy Project interview with Tommy Brannan.
Pasquale Francisco Bria 1891-1961
Pasquale “Pat” Bria was the organizer and director of many bands in the state of Alabama from the early 1920s through the 1950s: school bands, mill bands, and the Gen. Gorgas Post American Legion Band in Birmingham. He was a symphony musician, playing first chair bassoon with the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and the Chattanooga, Tennessee Symphony Orchestra. He was on the faculty of the Birmingham Southern Conservatory of Music in the 1920s and was for many years a judge in state band contests and an instructor at the University of Alabama Summer Band Camps.
Professor Bria, as he was commonly known, was born in Italy in 1891 and received his music education there He came to the United States as a young man and enlisted in the US Army be fore World War I. He traveled with a Calvary unit to New Mexico and Arizona, chasing the Mexican leader Pancho Villa. When the United States entered into World War I, he was sent to France, where he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant Band Director, 122nd Infinity Division
Among the many award-winning school bands organized and conducted by Professor Bria were those in Cullman, Hanceville, Alexander City, and Eutaw. During the years of World War II. he was the director of both the Cullman and Alexander City bands, traveling between the two towns by train each week.
Mr. Bria died in 1961 at the age of 70.
Mr. Bria was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1976.
Curtis Burttram
Curtis Burttram has served as a music educator in public schools in Alabama for over 40 years. He grew up in Gadsden, Alabama and attended Gadsden High School. He is a graduate of Jacksonville State University, earning B.S. and M.A. degrees in Music Education.
Mr. Burttram began his teaching career at Douglas High School in Marshall County in 1982. In addition to his duties as band director, he began a choral program at the school.
Mr. Burttram spent the majority of his career as Director of Bands at Albertville High School. While at Albertville, he was selected Albertville City Schools Teacher of the Year in 2008. Mr. Burttram also served as band director Gadsden High School, as well as schools in Russellville, Alexandria, and Jasper, Alabama.
Throughout Mr. Burttram’s career, his marching, concert, and jazz bands have consistently received Superior Ratings, numerous Best in Class awards, as well as Grand Champion awards. In addition, his bands have performed all across the Southeast and nationally, including performances at the Fiesta Bowl National Pageant of Bands and Parade, The Hollywood Christmas Parade, The National Cherry Blossom Parade in Washington D.C. as well as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Over the last 35 years, Mr. Burttram has been an active judge throughout the states of Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee for both concert and marching band festivals. He has also conducted many Honor Bands throughout various Districts in Alabama.
Mr. Burttram continues to be active in music education, teaching privately and enjoying his opportunities to work with bands across North Alabama. Over the years, he has performed extensively with a wide variety of ensembles including church and civic groups as well as R&B and Jazz groups. He has also had the joy of providing worship leadership for many churches and choirs over his lifetime.
Mr. Burttram’s professional memberships include Phi Beta Mu, NAfME, AMEA, and the Alabama Bandmasters Association.
Mr. Burttram was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 2021. Watch this Phi Bet a Mu Legacy Project interview with Curtis Burttram.
Bill Brunner
Bill Brunner is a native of Cullman, Alabama and a graduate of the University of Alabama where he earned B.S. and M.A. degrees in Music Education.
He began his teaching career in 1959 at Vigor High School (Prichard, Alabama) where his bands received “Excellent” ratings at State Competition Festivals during his four years there. In 1963 he organized the Austin High School Band in Decatur, Alabama and served as the band director until his retirement in 1988. Under his direction, the Austin Band compiled an impressive record of achievement including top ratings in numerous national concert festivals, and earned 22 consecutive “Superior” ratings at the Alabama State Competition Festivals.
Mr. Brunner served as an adjudicator and guest conductor in Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, Georgia, and Florida. State offices he held include President of the Alabama Bandmasters Association and President of the Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu. In 1988 he was honored as the “Outstanding Music Educator” by the AMEA. After retiring from teaching, Mr. Brunner was employed by Nuncie’s Music until 2001. After retiring from Nuncie’s, he continued to teach privately in Decatur until moving to Georgia in 2014 to be closer to family.
Mr. Brunner was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1988. Watch this Legacy Project interview with Bill Brunner.
Carleton K. Butler 1907-1993
Colonel Carleton K. Butler is best known as the long-time director of the University of Alabama “Million Dollar Band.” It was during his tenure this term was coined. He graduated from high school in Warren, Ohio. He attended Dana’s Musical Institute from 1924-1928, Kent State University from 1928-1932, and the University of Alabama in 1935.
Colonel Butler was band director at Ramsay High School (Birmingham) from 1930-1934 before becoming band director at the University of Alabama, where he remained until his retirement in 1969. From 1935-1946, he also served as band director at Tuscaloosa High School.
During his 34 years as band director at the University of Alabama, Colonel Butler was a driving influential force behind the band movement in Alabama. In 1939 he called a meeting of Alabama band directors at the University of Alabama to form the Alabama Bandmasters Association and served as its first president.
Colonel Butler was appointed “Honorary Colonel” in the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (University of Alabama) in 1940 and was appointed “Honorary Colonel in the Great State of Alabama” by Governor John Patterson in 1959. At his retirement in 1969, he was appointed “Professor Emeritus of Music.” Phi Beta Mu awarded Colonel Butler the “Outstanding Bandmasters Award” in 1969.
In 1979, $10,000 was donated by former students and friends to establish scholarships in the name of Colonel Butler. In 1980, the Board of Trustees of the University of Alabama dedicated and named the band practice field “Butler Field.”
Colonel Butler was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1976. Listen to this Legacy Project interview with Colonel Butler.
Dewey L. Countryman 1923-2003
Dewey L. Countryman was Born October 17, 1923 in Gadsden, Alabama. He graduated from Emma Sansom High School in 1940. Mr. Countryman received his B.S. Degree in Music Education in 1953 from Jacksonville State University. He attended the University of Alabama from 1954 to 1956 and from 1969 to 1970 receiving the MA Degree, the AA Certificate, and Ed.S. degrees.
Mr. Countryman was the band director at Crossville High School from 1951 to 1954, Crossville and Collinsville High School in 1955, Etowah High School from 1955 to 1959, Gadsden High School from 1959 to 1966, and Gadsden State College, from 1968 to 1986. He retired as Dean of Fine Arts at Gadsden State College.
Mr. Countryman is a former President of the Alabama Bandmasters Association. He is a member of the Order of the Silver Home, Alabama Bandmasters Association, American School Band Directors Association, NBA, MENC, AMEA, College and Directors National Association, Kappa Phi Kappa, Phi Mu Alpha Symphonia, and a charter member of Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu.
Dewey L. Countryman passed away on May 12, 2003.
Mr. Countryman was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1980.
Jerry L. Countryman 1932-2023
Jerry Countryman grew up in Attalla, Alabama. He received his BS in Music Education from Jacksonville State Teachers College (1955) and MA in Music Education from the University of Alabama (1959). He was band director at Ohatchee High School from 1953-1954, Oneonta High School from 1956-1960, and Decatur High School from 1960-1983.
Under Mr. Countryman’s direction, The Decatur High School Band received 21 years of “Superior” ratings at the Alabama Bandmasters Association State Band Competition Festival. The band performed at the 1965 Southern Division MENC Conference, the 1979 Southeastern United States Band Festival (Troy), and the 1982 Tri-State Band Festival (Florida State University).
Mr. Countryman’s memberships include MENC, the American School Band Directors Association, Phi Mu Alpha, and Phi Beta Mu.
Mr. Countryman was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1983.
James Lanier “Jimmy” Cowart 1916-1981
Jimmy Cowart, Athens School System band director from 1945-1968, earned degrees from Jacksonville State College and George Peabody College. Early teaching was in Guntersville, followed by naval service as a ship’s gunner and musician during WW II.
Cowart arrived in Athens in 1945, inheriting a seventeen-piece band. He was responsible for developing a band program at every level. Subsequently, he grew the band to over one hundred students with more in training. During his tenure, the Athens High School Band excelled in state band competition. Their numerous “Superior” ratings, 10 of which were consecutive, was an accomplishment virtually unrivaled throughout the state at that time. A highlight of the 1959 competition occurred when the contest judges stood and applauded upon the band’s completion of the Strauss overture “Die Fledermaus.”
In 1968, Cowart accepted the principalship of West Athens Elementary School, demonstrating that same commitment and leadership. In 1983 the school was renamed “James L. Cowart Elementary School,” a fitting legacy for a man who devoted his life to the young people of Athens and Limestone County.
Mr. Cowart was inducted Into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1976.
Claude LaFayette Dahmer 1891-1973
Claude Dahmer was born in Okalona, Mississippi. He studied piano and harmony with Lelia Stillwell of Meridian, MS. He studied instrumentation and conducting for five years with Carel Leake, who became Bandmaster at Mississippi A&M (now Mississippi State University). Mr. Dahmer studied band conducting at The Vandercook School of Chicago. At Damrosch Bandmaster’s and Musician’s School in Chaumont, France he was given an examination by Albert Stoessel and granted a certificate without being required to take the customary course of study.
During World War I, Mr. Dahmer was commissioned Second Lieutenant of Engineers in the U.S. Army. He served as Division Bandmaster in charge of eight bands and an orchestra of the First Division. Later he organized an orchestra at the Saenger Theater until talking pictures replaced silent films in 1930. In 1934, he became orchestra conductor and instrumental instructor in the Mobile Public Schools. He retired in 1960 but continued playing professionally for some years
Mr. Dahmer was married to Jaunie Quarles of Meridian, MS. They had one son, Claude L. Dahmer, Jr., and one daughter, Jeanne Dahmer of Fairhope, AL.
Mr. Dahmer served as Vice-President of the Alabama High School Music Festival Association in 1941. He was one of eight outstanding Alabama Music Educators to receive gold certificates in March 1957. He was awarded the P. Richard Scroll of Merit by the Mobile Press in 1960. He was given a “Salute For Service” editorial in the Mobile Register.
Mr. Dahmer was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1976.
Larry P. Deagon 1924-2015
Larry P. Deagon was born August 11, 1924 in Hornell, NY. His high school years were at North Toronto (Canada) Collegiate Institute. He received his B.M. Degree from Birmingham Southam College in 1949 and the M.M. Degree from Northwestern University in 1953. He was band director at Hewitt-Trussville High School from 1949-1950 and at Shades Valley High School from 1950 to 1968. Mr. Deagon became Instrumental Supervisor for the Jefferson County Board of Education in 1968 and served in that position until his retirement in 1987.
During his tenure at Shades Valley High School, Mr. Deagon was the pacesetter for band directors in the Birmingham, Alabama area. His hands were an outstanding model, playing the very best and most difficult literature available and playing it quite well. His bands at Shades Valley were among the best in Alabama for many years, compiling numerous “Superior” ratings at the state band festival. During this time he was a leader among directors, serving as chairman of the ABA district and giving willingly and liberally of his time to help other directors in the area.
As positively influential as he was the Shades Valley band director, Mr. Deagon’s creative impact may well have been achieved during the nineteen years he served as supervisor. He rehearsed bands, conducted section rehearsals, gave private lessons, and contributed sound advice to directors concerning music selection, pedagogy, rehearsal procedure, and musical interpretation.
Mr. Deagon was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1994.
Jim Duren 1950-2020
Jim Duren was a graduate of Gordo High School. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama. While at the University, he was a member and student conductor of the “Million Dollar Band,” Principal Trombonist in the Symphonic Band, Bass Trombonist with the Brass Ensemble, Trombone Choir, University Symphony Orchestra, and the Jazz Ensemble.
Mr. Duren was the Director of Bands at Oak Mountain High School from its opening in the fall of 1999 through the spring of 2012. Prior to coming to Oak Mountain, Mr. Duren was Director of Bands at Mountain Brook Jr. High (1973-1978), Mountain Brook High School (1978-1987), and Pelham High School (1987 – 1999). During his 39-year career, Mr. Duren’s bands performed throughout the southeastern and midwestern United States, The Bahamas, Toronto, and two performances at Carnegie Hall in New York.
Mr. Duren was a member of the Alabama Music Educators Hall of Fame, the Alabama Bandmasters Association, the National Association for Music Education, the National Band Association, and Phi Beta Mu. In 1996, he was awarded the “John Philip Sousa Legion of Honor Award.” In 1999, he was named “Honorary Conductor” of the University of Alabama Wind Ensemble.
In 2011, Mr. Duren was awarded the “Outstanding Band Director of the Year” award for the State of Alabama by the Rho chapter of Phi Beta Mu. He was also named “Outstanding Alumni” at the University of Alabama in 2011. A member of Hunter Street Baptist Church, Mr. Duren was married to Sharon Lamberth Duren. His son, Jason, is married to Bashan Duren.
On May 20, 2012, former Birmingham, Alabama area students from Mountain Brook HS, Pelham HS, and Oak Mountain HS gathered Mr. Duren on his retirement. Here is their rendition of “Salvation Is Created”.
Mr. Duren was inducted Into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 2020. Watch this Legacy Project interview with Jim Duren.
Yale H. Ellis 1904-1968
Yale Ellis was band director at Woodlawn High School (Birmingham) from 1927-1938, Sydney Lanier High School (Montgomery) from 1938-1955, and assistant band director at the University of Alabama from 1955-1967. Under his direction, Woodlawn became the first high school band in Alabama to perform half-time shows at football games. Mr. Ellis was one of the originators of the Ala Breve magazine and continued to contribute articles for the magazine throughout his career. He was one of the pioneers of the Alabama Bandmasters Association and later served as its president.
Mr. Ellis was, for many years, director of the summer music camp at the University of Alabama and taught music camps at Auburn University and in South Carolina. He also taught instrument repair on public television and in the classroom.
Mr. Ellis was inducted Into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1976.
Johnny Folsom
Johnny Folsom taught bands in Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi during a career spanning 45 years. After graduating from Troy State University, he began his career at Geneva High School where he taught for 8 years. He was then band director at T. R. Miller High School in Brewton, Alabama for 17 years, bringing his career in Alabama to 25 years.
Mr. Folsom continued his career at Cairo High School in southwest Georgia where he was band director for 13 years. After leaving Cairo, Mr. Folsom joined the faculty at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, Georgia. Here, he served as director of bands and low brass instructor. Mr. Folsom is now on the faculty in the Mississippi State University Music Department. He serves as a university supervisor of student interns, works with the Mississippi State University Famous Maroon Band, and serves as the director of the Starkville/MSU Community Band.
Johnny Folsom was not only a member of the Alabama Bandmasters Association, but served as its President. During his time in Georgia, Mr. Folsom was a member of the Georgia Music Educators Association and served as Chairman for District 2. Troy State University’s music faculty honored Mr. Folsom as its 1996 “Alumnus of the Year.” He was also named to the High School Band Directors National Association Hall of Fame. Throughout his career, Mr. Folsom has judged numerous marching and concert festivals in Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and South Carolina. He is also a regular honor band clinician.
Johnny Folsom was named to the Phi Beta Mu Hall of Fame in 2009. Watch this Legacy Project interview with Johnny Folsom.
Dr. Ted A. Galloway 1936-2009
Dr. Ted Galloway is a native of Tuscaloosa, Alabama. He attended Holt High School, graduating in 1955. He attended the University of Alabama where he earned his B.S. degree in 1959, his M.A. degree in 1963, and the Ed.D. degree in 1985.
In 1959 Dr. Galloway became band director at McAdory High School. In 1962, he moved to W. A. Berry High School as the new high school’s first band director. In 1970, he organized the Vestavia Hills High School band program and directed the marching band, symphonic band, and jazz band until his retirement in 1990.
His marching, concert, and jazz bands consistently received “Superior” ratings at state, regional, and national festivals, including receiving “Best in Class” at many festivals. His concert, marching, and jazz bands have performed at the Music Educators National Conference and the National Band Association Convention, as well as other national and regional events.
Dr. Galloway served as President of the Alabama Bandmasters Association, served three terms as President of the Alabama Chapter of IAJE, and served as President of the Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu. He was inducted into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame in 1988 and named “Outstanding Music Educator of the Year” in 1991 by the Alabama Music Educators Association. He was a guest conductor, adjudicator, and clinician throughout the Southeastern United States and directed an honor high school jazz band throughout Western Europe. This video chronicles Dr. Galloway’s time at Vestavia Hills High School.
Dr. Galloway was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1991.
Dr. Mort Glosser 1913-1996
Dr. Mort Glosser graduated from Rochelle (Illinois) High School in 1930. He received his BSM from Connell University (Iowa) in 1934, MM from the University of Wisconsin in 1943, and EdD from Michigan State University 1954. He taught in Woodbine, Iowa before coming to Gadsden. Dr. Glosser served in the Army Air Force (Europe) from 1944-1946.
Dr. Mort Glosser was band director at Gadsden High School from 1936-1959. He became Director of Instruction for the Gadsden City School System in 1959, and remained in that position until July 1965, when he became Superintendent of Gadsden City Schools. He served as superintendent until his retirement in 1975.
He is a past president of the Gadsden Rotary Club, Gadsden Jaycees, and Alabama Bandmasters Association. He was named to “Who’s Who in American Education” and “Who’s Who in The South and Southwest.”
Dr. Glosser was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1976.
Tommy King Goff 1933-2008
Tommy Goff was born in Mobile, Alabama on June 13, 1933. He graduated from Murphy High School in 1951. He earned the B.S. Degree in 1956, the M.S. Degree in 1962 from Auburn University, and did post-graduate work at Florida State University in 1970 and the University of Texas in 1984 and 1985.
Mr. Goff served as band director at Auburn High School from 1956 until his retirement in 1989. He served as an Adjunct Professor of Music from 1970 until 1973.
Upon his retirement, Mr. Goff taught part-time at Auburn Junior High School. Under the direction of Mr. Goff, the Auburn High School Band received 118 “Superior” and 8 “Excellent” ratings in Concert and Jazz Band Contests at the Alabama Bandmasters Association State Contest, the Dogwood Arts Festival, the Smoky Mountain Music Festival, the Festival of Champions in Orlando, and the Daytona Music Festival. The band was selected to perform at the Southern Music Educators National Conference Convention in Atlanta, Georgia in 1977 and performed at the Southeastern United States Band Clinic at Troy State University in 1971.
In 1989, the Auburn High School Band and Tommy Goff received the Sudler “Flag of Honor” for one of the “Nation’s Outstanding Concert Bands.” Mr. Goff was honored many times for his superior teaching. The Auburn High School Annual was dedicated to Mr. Goff in 1965, 1972, 1980, and 1989. “Tommy Goff Day” was declared by the Governor of the State of Alabama on the anniversary of 25 years of teaching.
Mr. Goff was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1989.
Gene Gooch 1932-2020
Gene Gooch was born on November 17, 1932 on the U.S. Corps of Engineers Reservation at Florence, Alabama. He was educated in Florence City Schools and graduated from Coffee High School in 1950. Gene began music study on alto saxophone in 1944 and began the study of bassoon in 1947. He studied bassoon privately with Mr. Pasquale Bria, who was band director in Cullman. Gene also studied alto saxophone and sousaphone under Mr. Floyd C. McClure, the band director at Coffee High School.
He attended Murray State College in Kentucky after high school, but due to the outbreak of the Korean War, joined the U.S. Air Force after the first semester. He was a member of the Air University’s 604th Air Force Band at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery Alabama and the 584th Air Force Band at Eglin Air Force Base in Fort Walton, Florida. In the Air Force, Gene played bassoon in the concert band and saxophone in the dance band. He also acted as drum major in the marching band. During these years, Gene was a member of the Montgomery Symphony and an original member of the Pensacola Symphony.
Upon discharge from the Air Force in January of 1955, he enrolled at the University of Alabama. Gene received the Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education in August, 1957. He played bassoon in the Million Dollar Band, University Symphony and the University Woodwind Quintet and was drum major of the Million Dollar Band. He also played with the Birmingham Civic Opera orchestra. Gene was a member of The Capstoners Dance Band, playing alto saxophone. In August 1960, he received the Master of Arts degree in Music Education from the University of Alabama.
In 1957, he became Band Director at Sheffield High School. In 1962, Mr. Gooch became Band Director at Colbert County High School. He was appointed Band Director at Appleby Middle School in Florence in 1966, and then Band Director at Coffee High School in 1972. The bands at Coffee High School consistently received Superior ratings at the Alabama Bandmaster Association State Band Competition Festival. and at other competitions. Mr. Gooch retired from Coffee High School in 1986 but taught woodwinds at The University of North Alabama as an adjunct faculty member until 2001. He served as Secretary-Treasurer of the Alabama Music Educators Association from 1972 through 1978. In 1979 Mr. Gooch became Secretary-Treasurer of the Alabama Bandmasters Association and remained in that position until his retirement from teaching in 1986. In 1991 he was asked to return to service as Executive Secretary of the Alabama Bandmasters Association.
Mr. Gooch was a member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia and Phi Beta Mu, the International Bandmasters Fraternity. He was a past-president of Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu. Mr. Gooch was the first undergraduate at the University of Alabama invited to become a member of Phi Delta Kappa, national education honorary. Other professional affiliations include Music Educators National Conference, Alabama Music Educators Association, National Education Association and Alabama Education Association. He was a member of the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame and the University of Alabama Million Dollar Band Association Hall of Fame. In 1953, Gene married Virginia Reed Gooch. They had two children: Gena Gooch Cape and Michael Gooch.
Gene Gooch was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Hall of Fame in 2005.
Dan Havely
Dan Havely was Director of Bands at Athens High School from 1966 until his retirement in 2000. A native of Morristown, Tennessee, he received his bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of North Alabama in 1966, and his Master of Music Education from the University of Memphis in 1973.
The concert, marching, and jazz bands at Athens High School have received state and national recognition for their musical accomplishments. The symphonic band under Havely’s direction received a “Superior” rating for 26 consecutive years, a state record for bands in its classification.
Mr. Havely served as President of the Alabama Bandmasters Association and two terms as District Chairman. During his tenure as president, he organized the first ABA Summer Convention. He was also President of the Alabama chapter of the International Association of Jazz Educators, and during his tenure co-founded, along with Dr. Ted Galloway, the first Alabama All-State Jazz Band in 1979. He served as President of the Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu.
Mr. Havely was selected as a finalist for “Alabama Teacher of the Year in 1997.” Over the years he has served as a guest conductor, clinician, and adjudicator throughout the southeastern United States and Great Britain. His arrangements for marching band have been published by CPP/Belwin Warner Brothers.
Mr. Havely was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1999. Watch this Legacy Project interview with Dan Havely.
Dr. Wilbur “Bodie” Hinton 1921-2016
Wilbur “Bodie” Hinton was Director of Bands at Auburn University from 1956-1969 and served as head of the Auburn University Department of Music from 1969-1984. He served as band director at Tuscaloosa Jr. High, and then Tuscaloosa High School, before beginning his tenure at Auburn.
Dr. Hinton’s professional memberships include Phi Beta Mu, The American Bandmasters Association, the Alabama Music Educators Association, MENC, Phi Kappa Phi, and Omicron Delta Kappa. He is a past president of the Alabama Bandmasters Association.
In 1986, the band practice field at Auburn University was dedicated the “Wilbur ‘Bodie’ Hinton Field” in his honor.
Dr. Hinton was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Hall of Fame in 1976.
William “Billy” Hrabe 1879-1938
William “Billy” Hrabe was born in Cuba, Kansas in 1880. He has no record of formal education, only “studies,” and was referred to as “Professor Hrabe.” He served as the first band director of Sidney Lanier High School, Montgomery, Alabama, from 1923 to 1938.
For a time Mr, Hrabe traveled with some of the better-known musical organizations of this country. Then, because of a special fondness for band music, he specialized in band organizations and technique. This resulted in the publication of several compositions of unusual merit including a book of instruction for bands.
Mr. Hrabe was also director of the Masonic Home Band, the Shrine Band, the West Point Railroad Band, and the D.O.K.K. Band.
Mr. Hrabe was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1976.
Dr. Johnny Jacobs
Johnny Jacobs is noted for his outstanding bands at Minor High School and his work as Supervisor of Bands for the Jefferson County School System. He earned his BME from Birmingham-Southern College in 1965, MA from the University of Alabama in 1968, Advanced Certificate in Music Education from the University of Illinois in 1975, and EdD from the University of Alabama in 1985.
Dr. Jacobs served as band director in Jefferson County at Dixie Jr. High School, Minor High School, and Berry High School, before his 13 years as Supervisor of Bands. His tenure with the school system spanned from 1964-2000.
As an outgrowth of his doctoral dissertation, Dr. Jacobs published Supplementary Material for Beginning Band, Fifteen Settings for Beginning Band and Pre-Recorded Electronic Synthesizer. This work, named “The Johnny Book” by the students and directors who adopted it, has been used with significant success in several Birmingham area middle schools.
In addition to his work with bands, Dr. Jacobs played principal trumpet with the Alabama Pops Orchestra, the Birmingham Symphony Pops Orchestra, and second trumpet with the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. He taught trumpet at Birmingham-Southern College for thirty years and at Samford University for eleven years. After retiring from the Jefferson County Schools, Dr. Jacobs taught music education and trumpet for two years at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. In addition, Dr. Jacobs has maintained an active private trumpet studio. He is affiliated as a conductor with the Birmingham Community Concert Band and plays principal trumpet with the Celebration Winds.
Dr. Jacobs is a deacon at First Baptist Church Warrior and also serves as Director of Discipleship Training. He served as president of the Alabama Bandmasters Association from 1977-1979.
Dr. Jacobs was inducted into Phi Beta Mu Rho Chapter’s Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1997. Watch this Legacy Project interview with Dr. Johnny Jacobs.
Dr. Edd Jones 1937-2020
Dr. Edd Jones is a native of Eclectic, Alabama. After graduation from Elmore County High School, he earned Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degrees at the University of Alabama and the Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Southern Mississippi.
Prior to his appointment as Director of Bands at the University of North Alabama, Dr. Jones held band director positions at Opelika High School and Elmore County High School. He was assistant director of the University of Southern Mississippi Marching Band and Director of Bands at Livingston University (now the University of West Alabama).
Dr. Jones began his tenure at the University of West Alabama in 1978 and retired in August 2000. He continued to serve the university as Band Liaison and trumpet teacher. During his 22 years at UNA, the marching band under his tutelage was known for its precision marching and musical sound. The UNA Band performed at 16 Division II National Championship games and made numerous national television appearances. Watch Dr. Jones and his son, Lloyd Jones, as they talk about the development of the band program.
The Concert and Jazz Bands were integral parts of the band program during his reign, playing for numerous concerts on and off campus. In 1997, the Concert Band, under his direction, performed for the Alabama Music Education Association Conference held on the Auburn University campus. During 1998, 1999, and 2000, the Jazz Band performed at numerous schools throughout the state as part of the Alabama State Council on the Arts rural touring program.
Dr. Jones was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1997, joining his high school band director, Truman Welch, and his college band director, Col. Carlton K. Butler
Frank Hubert Kendeigh, Sr. 1923-2003
Frank Kendeigh was brn on December 19, 1923 in Palisade, Colorado. He graduated from Colorado State College (Greeley, Colorado), where he earned a BS MA in Music Education.
Prior to Directing the S.R Butler High School Band, Mr. Kendeigh was the Band Director at Thompson High School (Siluria, Alabama) and Hewitt-Trussville High School (Trussville, Alabama). He was called upon to adjudicate at district and state contests in Alabama, Kentucky, and Tennessee. In 1972, Mr. Kendeigh received the National Band Association’s “Citation of Excellence.” In 1976 he was the first band director in Alabama to receive the “McAllister Award” from the National Band Association.
Mr. Kendeigh served as President, Vice-President and Secretary-Treasurer of the Alabama Bandmasters Association. He was also a member of the Music Educators National Conference, Phi Beta Mu, National Association of Jazz Educators, American School Band Directors Association, National Educators Association, and the Huntsville Teachers Association.
During Frank’s tenure, and due to his inspiring leadership, the S. R. Butler High School Band consistently scored “Superior” ratings in both marching and concert performances at district and state Contests. Alabama Governor, George Wallace, appointed the band to be “Alabama’s Ambassadors of Goodwill” at the first International Band Festival held in Vienna, Austria in July 1972.
Mr. Kendeigh was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Hall of Fame in 1986.
Eugene “Gene” B. Landreth 1904-1980
Gene Landreth founded the band at the Alabama School for the Blind in Talladega, and was the director from 1934 to 1967. During the 40s and 50s, he led one of the finest bands in the state, taking part in state contest and representing Alabama in the Lions International Parades.
The students were taught to read music by braille and to memorize their parts. Many fine musicians graduated from the program. He did much to promote music in his early years through the many concerts performed throughout the state.
Talladega proclaimed “Gene Landreth Day” in 1979. The Alabama House of Representatives named a building in Talladega the “Eugene B. Landreth Music Hall.” View the dedication of and ribbon cutting of the building.
Mr. Landreth was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1983.
Dr. Russell Logan
Dr. Russell (Rusty) Logan is a native of Wetumpka, AL and a graduate of Wetumpka High School. While at Wetumpka High School, his band directors were Mr. George Truman Welch and Dr. Edd Jones. He then attended Auburn University where he received the Bachelor of Science in Music Education and Master of Music in Trombone Performance. Dr. Logan later attended the University of Mississippi where he obtained the Doctor of Arts in Music Theory.
Dr. Logan served as Director of Bands at Monroe Academy in Forsyth, GA, Victoria High School in Victoria, TX, and Auburn High School in Auburn, AL.
After serving 24 years as Director of Bands at Auburn High School, Dr. Logan retired in July 1, 2013. During his service at Auburn High School, the bands were rated “Superior” yearly at the Alabama Bandmasters Association’s Music Performance Assessment. The AHS Band also performed for the Alabama Music Educators Association, the Southeastern United States Concert Band Clinic, and the Southern Division of the College Bandmasters Association. Dr. Logan is currently serving as Director of Bands at Huntingdon College (Montgomery, AL).
Dr. Logan served as President of the Alabama Bandmasters Association from 2005 to 2007, and is currently the Executive Director of the Alabama Music Educators Association.
Dr. Logan was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 2019. Watch this Legacy Project interview with Dr. Rusty Logan.
Dr. John M. Long 1925-2020
Dr. John M. Long was Dean of the School of Fine Arts, Director of Bands, and Distinguished Professor of Music Emeritus at Troy University. He was Past President of the prestigious American Bandmasters Association and was active as a guest conductor, speaker, clinician, and adjudicator throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, and Mexico.
Dr. Long received many National and State Awards, including election to the NBA Hall of Fame of Distinguished Conductors, the AWAPA Award from the NBA, the Distinguished Service to Music Medal from Kappa Kappa Psi, the Gold Medal from the Sousa Foundation, the Governor’s Award from the Alabama State Council of the Arts, the Outstanding Music Educator of the Year Award from the AMEA, the Barbara Odom Award from the AMEA, the Al Wright Award from the WBDNA, and was elected to the Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame by the Phi Beta Mu. Dr. Long served 24 years on the Alabama Historic Commission and was Past President of the Rotary Club and the Chamber of Commerce. Troy University has two buildings named for him. In 1998, the Board of Trustees renamed the school of music the “John M. Long School of Music” in his honor.
Watch this Legacy Project interview with Dr. Long. Watch this interview with CBS News. This playlist features his marching bands at Robert E. Lee High School.
Dr. Long was inducted Into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1977.
Dr. Thomas Lyle 1928-2011
Dr. Thomas Lyle was born in Decatur Alabama on July 3, 1928. In 1930, his family moved to Birmingham where he played in the band program at Parker High School. He obtained his undergraduate degree at Tennessee State University and taught at high schools in Huntsville and Winter Park, FL before joining the staff at Florida A&M University in 1960. He completed his education at the University of Michigan, earning a master’s degree in music education in 1964 and a doctorate in clarinet performance in 1977.
In 1964, Dr. Lyle came to Alabama State University where he served as Director of Bands. At ASU, he also served as Professor of Clarinet and Head of the Instrumental Music Department.
Memberships included the Alabama Band Directors Association, Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma Honorary Band Fraternity and Sorority at Alabama State University, College Band Directors National Association, National Band Association, Phi Kappa Lambda, and many other honorary associations.
After his retirement from Alabama State University, Dr. Lyle was appointed Band Director at Stillman College in 2000. In 2010, Dr. Lyle cut the ribbon at the “Thomas E. Lyle Band Center,” an annex to the Cordell Wynn Humanities and Fine Arts Center. The Thomas E. Lyle Hand Center houses the marching and concert bands at Stillman College in Tuscaloosa, Alabama,
Dr. Lyle passed away in June 2011
Dr. Lyle was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Band Directors Hall of Fame in 2012.
Harry McAfee
Retired after 37 years of experience as a successful band director in Alabama public schools, Harry McAfee completed his career as band director at the award-winning Hoover High School. His bands consistently received “Superior” ratings on both the concert stage and the marching field and performed in many prestigious events both in the United States and abroad.
Mr. McAfee received his Bachelor of Music Degree from the University of Montevallo and earned a Master of Science Degree at the University of Illinois, placing emphasis on instrumental conducting and band literature. Mr. McAfee served the Alabama Bandmasters as Vice-Chairman and Chairman of District IV, as Vice President and President of ABA, and for 9 years as the Executive Secretary. He retired from the U.S. Army Reserve after 26 years of meritorious service with the 313th Army Band. In retirement, Mr. McAfee continues to teach private trumpet students and sectionals in Birmingham area middle schools as well as observing intern teachers for the University of Alabama Music Department. He also serves as an adjudicator and guest clinician around Alabama and southern states.
Memberships include the Alabama Music Educators, National Association for Music Education, The National Band Association, The International Trumpet Guild, and Phi Beta Mu Honorary Band Directors Fraternity. Mr. McAfee now serves as conductor for the Birmingham Community Concert Band. He also plays principal trumpet with the Alabama Winds and the Celebration Winds community bands. Active with the American Federation of Musicians Union, he plays local shows, church, and freelance work
Mr. McAfee was inducted Into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 2023. Watch this Legacy Project interview with Harry McAfee.
Floyd C. McClure 1914-2005
Floyd C. McClure was the long-time band director at Coffee High School in Florence. He was a charter member of the Alabama Bandmasters Association in 1939, and was among those who were responsible for organizing the first All-State bands. He pushed through legislation to authorize an ABA-sanctioned state band contest and organized the first one in 1947. He also organized the first All-State Band and Choral Festival held at the University of Alabama in 1947.
Mr. McClure graduated from Decatur (Illinois) High School in 1933. He received his BME from Murray (Kentucky) State College in 1937 and attended the University of Alabama from 1938-1941.
He was band director at Thomasville High School from 1937-1940 before accepting the position at Coffee, where he served from 1940-1972. In 1972, he organized the Weeden Junior High School Band and was the director until his retirement in 1976.
During Mr. McClure’s tenure at Coffee High School, the band was consistently awarded “Superior” and “Excellent” ratings at Alabama Bandmasters Association State Band Competition Festival. The band performed frequently in Mardi Gras parades in Mobile and New Orleans, performed at the Lion’s International Convention in Miami, and performed in the Orange Bowl Parade on two occasions.
Mr. McClure played with the Huntsville Symphony, the Florence Civic Orchestra, and the Florence Big Band. He was Choir Director at the First Methodist Church in Florence, and for 20 years was Choir Director at Trinity Episcopal Church. He organized and directed the Tri-Cities Oratorio Association.
Mr. McClure is a past president of the Alabama Bandmasters Association. Memberships include MENC, AMEA, Phi Beta Mu, and charter membership in the Gamma Delta Chapter of Phi Mu Alpha.
Mr. McClure was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1984.
Steve McLendon
Steve McLendon served as Director of Bands at Dothan High School for over three decades. He received his BME from Troy State University and his MA from the University of North Alabama.
Mr. McLendon began his career as band director at Fairview High School in 1977 and remained there through 1988. At that point, he accepted the position at Dothan High School. At both schools, his bands consistently received “Superior” ratings at the Alabama Bandmasters Association State Competition Festival. At Dothan, Mr. McLendon directed the marching band, jazz band, and three concert bands.
Mr. McLendon served as president of the Alabama Bandmasters Association. Memberships include the Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters Fraternity, NAfME, AMEA, ABA, NAJIE, AEA, NBA, and NEA.
Mr. McLendon was elected into the Phi Beta Mu Hall of Fame in 2013. Watch this Legacy Project interview with Steve McLendon.
Herman Helfrich Moll 1892-1957
Herman Moll was born January 27, 1892 in Macon, Georgia. For 37 years, Mr. Moll was active in building the music program in Troy and Pike County. He was a highly-respected music teacher in Troy from 1917 until his death in 1957. In 1917 he began teaching the young people of Troy, and with the opening of Troy High School in 1919, he started the Troy High School Orchestra and developed the program into a concert band as well as various ensembles and a marching band. Today, the Charles Henderson High School band program of the Troy City Schools stands as a living memorial to Mr. Moll.
Mr. Moll began his music career as a percussionist. He later became an accomplished violinist as well as performing on several other instruments. As a violinist, he won the Georgia State Violin Contest in 1904, 1905, and 1906. He established his own orchestra in Cordelle, Georgia and conducted the American Theater Orchestra in Columbus, Georgia. He had much success as an orchestra director for silent movies.
Mr. Moll was honored on many occasions by such groups as the Alabama Music Educators Association and the Alabama Bandmasters Association, of which he served as president.
Mr. Moll was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1976.
Tony L. Pike 1959-2013
Tony L. Pike graduated from Hogansville H.S. in 1977 and graduated from Troy State University with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He was the band director, elementary music teacher, and choral director at Straughn School from 1980-86. In 1986, Mr. Pike moved to Opp to serve as Band Director at Opp Middle School and Opp H.S. He served as Director of Bands at Davidson H.S. 1994 until his retirement in 2012.
Under Mr. Pike’s direction, the Davidson band has received straight “Superior” ratings in Concert performances at the Alabama State Band festival and had performed in Orlando, FL; Washington DC, college football games for Troy State University and Auburn University, as well as performing throughout the Southeast, in London, in France, and in Washington, D.C.
Mr. Pike was elected to Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers and Who’s Who in American Education. He served as Vice-Chairman & Chairman of District VIII ABA 1990-94 and as Vice-President and President of the Alabama Bandmasters Association 1995-1999. Mr. Pike was Mobile County Council PTA Teacher of the Year for 1996-97. He is a Past President of the Alabama Music Educators Association.
Mr. Pike was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 2013.
Dr. Lacey Powell, Jr. 1928-2016
Dr. Lacey Powell was the first band director at the University of South Alabama, appointed in 1965. He later served as Executive Director for the Alabama Music Educators Association. Dr. Powell received his bachelor’s from Troy State University, master’s from VanderCook College of Music (Chicago), and Ph.D. from the University of Alabama, with additional study at Northwestern University.
Dr. Powell was a member of the 43rd Division Army Band during the Korean Conflict. He was a member of the Mobile Symphony for seven seasons and a charter member of the Mobile Symphonic Pops Band.
During his career at Georgiana High School, Andalusia High School, and Davidson High School, Dr. Powell’s bands received only “Superior” ratings at the Alabama Bandmasters Association State Competition Festival. Before joining the faculty at the University of South Alabama, he was Supervisor of Music for the Mobile County Public Schools. As part of the bicentennial celebration, Dr. Powell was director of the “Marching 200,” the official Alabama bicentennial marching band, which performed on three national telecasts.
Dr. Powell has been honored as Troy State University Distinguished Alumnus of the Year (1993), Troy State University Outstanding Music Educator (1992), AMEA Outstanding Music Educator (1993), and Outstanding Educator of America (1971), and AMEA Hall of Fame (2008). Dr. Powell has published articles in the Ala Breve, The Instrumentalist, Music Educators Journal, and School Musician-Director.
Dr. Powell served as president of the Alabama Bandmasters Association and Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters Fraternity. He was state chairman of the College Band Directors Association and the American School Band Directors Association. The “Lacey Powell Outstanding Music Educator,” awarded each year to an Alabama music educator, is named in his honor.
Dr. Powell was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1995.
George Van Meter Printz 1909-1973
George Van Meter Printz was born March 19, 1909, in Steubenville, Ohio, and died May 4, 1973 (while teaching). He graduated in 1925 from high school in Richmond, Indiana. Mr. Printz attended Cincinnati College of Music for a year and a half.
Mr. Printz taught band in Evergreen, Alabama from 1939 to 1941. In 1941 he began teaching at Capitol Heights Junior High School and Goodwyn Junior High School in Montgomery, Alabama on a “fee system.” The students paid the fees, as junior high directors were not certified at that time. Due to the lack of instruments at each school, Mr. Printz transported them between schools.
Mr. Printz served as Assistant Director of the University of Alabama Summer Music Camp for many years, working with Yale Ellis. He played trumpet with Johnny Long’s dance band for many years, and also played other professional engagements. He was known to teach music fundamentals thoroughly. Yale Ellis often commented that the students he received from Mr. Printz were very well-prepared.
Mr. Printz was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1976.
William T. Robinson, III
William T. Robinson, III taught for more than 40 years in secondary schools in Alabama and Tennessee. He was director of bands at Annie Knight Elementary School, Calvary Hills Junior High, Edward H. White Junior High, J.O. Johnson High School, S. R. Butler High School, and Catholic High School, all in Huntsville, Alabama. He also served for 7 years at South Junior High School in Cowan, Tennessee.
Mr. Robinson served on the faculties of Oakwood University, University of Alabama in Huntsville, Alabama A&M University, and Calhoun Community College in Huntsville.
Mr. Robinson earned his B.A., M.M/Ed., and Ed.S. degrees from Clark Atlanta University, VanderCook College of Music, and the University of North Alabama. He served as an exchange at the Interlochen Arts Center, Chairman of the Alabama National Band Association, Chairman of the Alabama Minority Concern for Music Education National Conference, and President of Alabama Phi Beta Mu.
Mr. Robinson hosted and produced radio music programs and published books and articles on teaching oboe. He conducted honor bands and clinics throughout the Southeast as well as the Midwest Band Clinic (Chicago) in 2005.
Memberships include the National Band Association, International Double Reed Society, International Clarinet Association, NEA, AMEA, ABA, MENC, and Alabama Tennessee Education Association.
Mr. Robinson was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 2011.
Carl Schwuchow 1914-1961
Carl Schwuchow attended the nationally-recognized Hobart, Indiana school system under the direction of Dr. William D. Revelli. As an instrumentalist, Mr. Schwuchow won the Indiana State Euphonium Contest every year between 1928 and 1933. He won the National Euphonium Contest in 1930, 1931, and 1932. He attended Western Kentucky University and graduated from Northern Normal College in Aberdeen, South Dakota in 1940.
He was band director at Claremont High School in Claremont, South Dakota in 1938. In 1939 he became band director of the Eureka, South Dakota band and won first place in the National Regional Band Contest. In 1942 he became band director at Winchester, Kentucky, and in 1944 came to Decatur High School. In 1954, Mr. Schwuchow became a charter member of the American Bandmasters Association. He was an officer of the Alabama Bandmasters Association at different times.
In the December 1959 issue of The School Musician, the Decatur Band was featured as one of the ten best bands in the United States. Mr. Schwuchow was instrumental in organizing the Alabama State Band Contest. In 1947 the Decatur Band received a “Superior Plus” rating, the only such rating ever given.
Carl Schwuchow was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1976
Blanche Simmons 1928-2007
Blanche Simmons received her undergraduate degree in 1956 from the University of Southern Mississippi. During her thirty-two years at Fairhope High School, (1956-1986), her band accumulated an impressive record of “Superior” ratings at the Alabama State Band Competition Festival. The band represented the State of Alabama at two Senior Bowl games, performed at Six Flags Over Georgia, Disneyland, represented Alabama in three Cherry Blossom Parades in Washington D.C., performed in Mexico City, Conductors Conference at Troy State University, American School Band Directors Association Convention, and Conductors Conference at the University of Southern Mississippi.
The Fairhope Chamber of Commerce presented her with a “Certificate of Merit for Outstanding and Meritorious Service to the Community” in the field of leadership. The Kiwanis Club of Fairhope presented her with a Distinguished Service Award for outstanding service to youth. In 1979, Ms. Simmons was presented with the “Mac” Award for the State of Alabama. She was a past president of the Alabama Bandmasters Association and was a member of ASBDA and Phi Beta Mu.
Ms. Simmons was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1987.
Lewis Simpkins 1908-1961
Lewis Simpkins was born in Pell City, Alabama in 1908 and died in Sylacauga, Alabama on March 31, 1961. He graduated from Eufaula High School in 1924 and graduated from Vandercook School of Music in Chicago, Illinois in 1948.
Mr. Simpkins was band director at Cowikee Mills Band (Eufaula, Alabama) from 1925 to 1929, Gulf Coast Military Academy (Gulfport, Mississippi) from 1929 to 1934, Cowikee Mills Band from 1934 to 1938, Avondale Mills Band (Pell City) from 1938 to 1940, and Sylacauga High School from 1940 until his retirement in 1971.
During his tenure as band director at Sylacauga High School, the band received 14 straight consecutive first-division ratings at the state band contest. The Sylacauga Band was the official host band for the Dixie Bowl Football Classic in Birmingham, AL in 1948 and 1949. Mr. Simpkins was director of the Auburn University Summer Band Camp from 1955 until 1958. He was a founding member of the Alabama Bandmasters Association in 1939 and served as president of the association in 1951 and 1952.
Mr. Simpkins was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1978.
William T. “Bill” Sloan 1915-2000
William T. “Bill Sloan was born October 29, 1915 in Huntsville, AL. He graduated from Huntsville High School in 1936. In 1940, Mr. Sloan joined the 151st Combat Engineers of the Alabama National Guard. In January 1941, the unit was sent to Dutch Harbor in the Aleutian Islands. He later served in the 414th Army Band.
After the war, Mr. Sloan, like many veterans, attended college. He received the B.ME Degree from Murray State University (Murray, Kentucky) in 1948 and the ME from Murray in 1968.
Mr. Sloan was band director at Fern Creek High School (Fern Creek, Kentucky) from 1948 until 1956 and at Huntsville High School (Huntsville, Alabama) from 1958 until his retirement in 1980.
Mr. Sloan developed many truly outstanding bands at Huntsville High School and placed a number of students in the All-State bands. In 1970, seven Huntsville High School band members were first chair players in the All-State Red Band. The Huntsville High School Band won “Best In Class” in Class 6A at the Six Flags Over Georgia Band Contest 1969 and was a close second place in 1970. The Huntsville High School Band made two tours to Mexico and was invited to perform at the Troy State University Conducting Clinic. Mr. Sloan was selected by First Chair of America as “Distinguished Band Director of America” in 1976. Mr. Sloan served as President of The Alabama Bandmasters Association from 1973 until 1975. He served as an adjudicator and clinician in several states as well as in Mexico, Italy, and Japan.
Mr. Sloan was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1981.
Glenn Spiller
Glenn Spiller was born in Lynn, Alabama in 1940. He graduated from C.F. Vigor High School (Mobile) in 1958. Mr. Spiller received his B.S. Degree in Music Education from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1982 and his master’s degree from Livingston University in 1970.
Mr. Spiller was band director at Bent, Mississippi from 1962 through 64, Taylorsville High School (Taylorsville, Mississippi) from 1964 through 1967, Choctaw County High School (Alabama) from 1967 through 1970, Livingston University (now the University of West Alabama) from 1971 until 1973, Selma High School from 1973 until 1983, and Decatur High School from 1983 until his retirement.
During Mr. Spiller’s time at Choctaw County High School, the band received the first “Superior” rating at state contest in the history of the school.
Under his leadership, the Decatur High School band received all “Superior” ratings at the Alabama Bandmasters State Contest. They received three “Best In Class” and the “Sweepstakes Award” at Six Flags Contests. They have also received “Best In Class” at the Daytona Beach Music Festival and the All-American Music Festival. The Decatur High School Band has performed, by invitation, at the Ark-La-Tex Band Festival and at the MENC National Conference Centennial Celebration.
Mr. Spiller was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1990. Watch this Legacy Project interview with Glenn Spiller.
.
Mike Stough
Mike Stough was a member of the Elmore County Band under legendary director Truman Welch. He was selected to the Alabama All-State Band from 1963-1966. Mr. Stough attended Auburn University, where he studied under Dr. Bodie Hinton, Director of Bands at Auburn. Mr. Stough played trumpet in the marching and concert bands and in the Auburn Knights. He graduated from Auburn University in 1970. Mr. Stough received his master’s degree from Troy State University where he studied with Dr. John Long and Dr. Paul Yoder. During this time, he also served as trumpet instructor on the Troy State faculty.
Mr. Stough began his teaching career at Rogers High School in Florence, Alabama. The band was consistently rated “Superior” in both marching and concert. In 1971, Mr. Stough returned to his alma mater, Wetumpka High School, as marching band director. The marching band was very successful and received a “Superior” rating at the first marching festival they ever attended. Mike performed professionally with many nationally-known groups.
In 1975, Mr. Stough became Director of Bands at Lanett High School. His bands received consistent “Superior” ratings in marching and concert festivals. They performed at the Dogwood Arts Music Festival in Knoxville in 1981 and were the First Place Winner.
In 1983, Mr. Stough became the director of the Opelika High School program. His bands were consistently rated “Superior” and performed at many festivals in the Southeast. They won 1st place in the Cherry Blossom Festival and appeared in the Macy’s Parade twice. Mike retired in 1999. He is married to the former Jennifer Barrett. They have two children.
Mike Stough was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 2007. Watch this Legacy Project interview with Mike Stough.
Garry Taylor
Garry Taylor retired after a thirty-one-year career as a band director, serving most of those years at Cullman High School in Cullman, Alabama. Mr. Taylor received his bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Auburn University and master’s degree and Class AA Certificate from the University of North Alabama. He served as Vice-President and President of the Alabama Chapter of the International Association of Jazz Educators. He served twice as Chairman of the Alabama Bandmasters Association, District III, as well as Recording Secretary, Vice President, and President of the Alabama Bandmasters Association. Mr. Taylor received the National Band Association “Citation of Excellence,” was selected as an “Outstanding Young Man of America,” was inducted into “Who’s Who among American High School Teachers” was selected “Featured Alumnus” of the Auburn University Bands, and is a recipient of the AMEA Barbara Odom Distinguished Service Award.
Mr. Taylor was Executive Director of the Alabama Music Educators Association and Editor of Ala Breve, the official publication of AMEA. He currently conducts the Cullman Community Band and often serves as guest conductor of honor bands and as an adjudicator throughout the Southeast.
Mr. Taylor was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 2015. Watch this Legacy Project interview with Garry Taylor.
Orland Thomas
Orland Thomas earned his B.S (1955) and his M.A. (1958) from the University of Alabama and took advanced graduate work at the University of Southern Mississippi. He is a 1950 graduate of Holt High School in Tuscaloosa County.
Mr. Thomas taught at Holt High School for nine years before moving to Mobile for a five-year stint at Davidson High School. He next assumed the position of Music Supervisor for the Mobile County Public School System, a job he held for the following 21 years. In this position, he was responsible for 32 school music programs. During this supervisory period, Mr. Thomas also taught part-time at the University of South Alabama (14 years), Mobile College (7 years), and conducted the Mobile Student Symphony (15 years).
Mr. Thomas was president of the Alabama Bandmasters Association (1967-68), was on the Mobile Arts Council Board of Directors, served on the board, and was chairman (1987-88) of the University of Alabama Society for the Fine Arts, played trombone in the Mobile Symphony, the Mobile Opera Orchestra, and the City of Mobile Symphonic/Pops Band, was a mobile Jazz Festival Board member, and was Choir Director at St. Marks and Springhill Avenue United Methodist Churches.
In 1983, Mr. Thomas was honored as the University of Alabama Music Department’s first Alumni Achievement Award recipient. He retains affiliation with the Music Educators National Conference (50+ years), the National Band Association, and the American School Band Directors Association.
Mr. Thomas continues to serve as a district band festival adjudicator, honor band festival conductor and solo and ensemble judge. Mr. Thomas is now retired and resides in Mobile, where he continues to participate in various church and community music activities.
Mr. Thomas was inducted Into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1997. Watch this Legacy Project interview with Orland Thomas.
James Lamar Triplett 1918-1974
Lamar Triplett graduated from Gadsden High School in 1936. He received his BS from Jacksonville State College in 1939, his MA from Peabody College in 1950, and did post-graduate work at the University of Alabama.
Mr. Triplett was band director at Emma Sansom High School (Gadsden) from 1939-1943, started the band programs at Oxford High School and Alexandria High School, and served as band director at Bessemer High School from 1950-1960. In his later years at Bessemer, he served as band director and Supervisor of Music. Mr. Triplett served as president of the Alabama Bandmasters Association.
Each year, the “Lamar Triplett Scholarship” is awarded to an outstanding high school senior who plans on attending college in Alabama and aspires to a career as a band director.
Lamar Triplett was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1976.
Dr. Johnnie Vinson
Johnnie Vinson was Director of Bands and Professor of Music Emeritus at Auburn University (Auburn, Alabama). He received bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music education from Auburn and a doctoral degree in music theory from the University of Mississippi.
Dr. Vinson retired from Auburn University several years ago after a long career with the Auburn Bands. Prior to joining the Auburn faculty, he taught in the public schools of Columbus, Georgia, and worked as a graduate assistant with the bands at the University of Texas and University of Mississippi. At Auburn, he supervised the overall band program, conducted the Symphonic Band, and taught conducting and band arranging. He was also faculty sponsor to Auburn’s Theta Lambda Chapter of Tau Beta Sigma.
With over 500 published arrangements and compositions, Dr. Vinson is an internationally recognized writer of music for band. His exclusive publisher is the Hal Leonard Corporation, the world leader in the music print industry. Six of his compositions and arrangements are included in the book Teaching Music Through Performance in Middle School Band, and his “Echoes of the Hollow Square” is featured in Vol. VI of Guides to Band Masterworks. Other of his compositions, such as “Newcastle March” and “Three Czech Folk Songs,” have become standards in the young band repertoire. He has served as an adjudicator and clinician throughout the United States and Canada.
Dr. Vinson has been active professionally as a member and officer in numerous organizations. He has served as the National Vice President for Professional Relations for Tau Beta Sigma, is a Past President of the Alabama Music Educators Association, and is a former Alabama State Chair of the College Band Directors National Association. He is a former member of the Board of Directors of the National Band Association and served as NBA Representative to the North American Band Directors Coordinating Council. Dr. Vinson is a Past President of Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters Fraternity and is also a member of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, Kappa Kappa Psi, and ASCAP.
Dr. Vinson was elected to membership in the prestigious American Bandmasters Association in 1994, has served three terms on its Board of Directors, and is currently Vice Chair of the ABA Foundation. He has been presented the Distinguished Service to Music Medal by Kappa Kappa Psi, the Citation of Excellence by the National Band Association, and the Outstanding Music Educator Award by the Alabama Music Educators Association. He has also been presented the Paula Crider Award by Tau Beta Sigma and was the first recipient of the “Johnnie Vinson Award,” named in his honor by Tau Beta Sigma. In January 2008, he was one of the inaugural class of twenty persons inducted into the Alabama Music Educators Hall of Fame.
He and his wife Nancy, a professional flutist, live in Auburn, Alabama. They have two adult sons, Lee and Ed, who are also professional musicians.
Dr. Vinson was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 2008. Watch this Legacy Project Interview with Dr. Vinson.
Dr. David L. Walters 1923-2015
Dr. David L. Walters was a native of Youngstown, Ohio. After graduating from Struthers High School, Dr. Walters served six years in the Navy, where he graduated from the United States Navy School of Music. He continued his music education by working on and receiving the B.S. Degree in Music from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. He continued his education with graduate work in musicology at Washington University in St. Louis. Further study took him to Florida State University, where he received the Master of Music Degree in Music Theory in 1960.
Dr. Walters’ teaching career began as Band Director at Fairfield High School in Hamilton, Ohio. From there, he moved to New Bern, North Carolina, where he served as Supervisor of Music for the New Bern school system and as Band Director for New Bern High School. Dr. Walters’ bands at New Bern consistently earned “Superior” ratings during his nine-year tenure there.
In 1961, Dr. Walters came to Jacksonville State University and served as Director of Bands from 1961 to 1991. He continued to develop The Marching Southerners by personally arranging the music which gave the Southerners their unique sound and trademark. He also arranged many fine dance line tunes specifically for the JSU Marching Ballerinas. By featuring this group, the Ballerinas became one of the finest dance line groups in the country. With his ability to arrange and produce such a unique sound for the field, along with his clever drill writing, strong traditions emerged from within the group. Section leaders were chosen from each section of the band and this proved to be an excellent educational tool. The band ultimately became one of the finest college bands in the United States. Listen to the audio of this halftime show from 1980.
During his tenure as Director of Bands, The Southerners performed at hundreds of band competitions as the exhibition band. They performed as the halftime entertainment for the Atlanta Falcons for many years. Dr. Walters wrote the “theme” music for the All-American Bowl which was played in Tampa, Florida, a place where the Southerners performed many times. The Southerners represented Alabama in the Inaugural Parade for President Lyndon Johnson in the early 60s. In 1976, the Southerners were selected to represent Alabama in the Bi-Centennial parade in Philadelphia.
Dr. Walters’ Symphonic Bands also toured the Southeast and performed for many high schools and recruited some of the finest performers. His band program produced many fine directors and educators. Dr. Walters always spoke very fondly of his nearly 5,000 band alumni whom he says were the finest people he ever had the privilege to teach. Dr. Walters was named “Emeritus Director of Bands” at Jacksonville State University.
Dr. Walters was inducted Into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 2007. Watch this Legacy Project interview with Dr. Walters.
Truman Welch 1919-2014
G. Truman Welch organized the Elmore County High School Band, combining students from Wetumpka and Eclectic. He directed this band for 26 years. The Elmore County Band was consistently rated “Superior” at the Alabama Bandmasters Association State Competition Festival and first place winner of the Virginia Beach Festival. The band was selected to play at the Midwest Clinic (Chicago) in 1965, the All-South Clinic at Jekyl Island (Georgia) in 1969, the Lion’s International in 1959 (New York), and 1960 (Chicago), and the Southern Division of MENC (Mobile) in 1969.
During World War II, Mr. Welch was director of the 13th Air Force Show Band. He taught woodwinds at the Auburn University and University of Alabama music camps, and taught at Troy State University, Auburn University, and Huntington College. Mr. Welch played professionally for many years in both symphonies and dance bands and was a member of the board of directors of the Montgomery Symphony. For over a decade, Mr. Welch was director of the Capitol Sounds Concert Band, an adult community band located in Montgomery.
Mr. Welch and Edd Jones originated and organized the Studio Lab Band movement. He also organized the first annual Southeastern United States Concert Band Clinic at Troy State University in 1974. He was recruited by Yamaha Musical Instrument Company to serve as their flute clinician throughout the Southeast. Mr. Welch was elected Mayor of Wetumpka in 1980.
Mr. Welch was president of the Alabama Bandmasters Association, president of the Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters Fraternity, and served on the governing board of the National Band Association.
Mr. Welch was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1978.
Ken Williams 1946-2011
Ken Williams graduated from Winston County High School in 1965. He attended Florence State University (now the University of North Alabama) from 1965-67 and the University of North Alabama from 1971-1973, where he earned his BS in Music Education. Between the years 1967-1971, he served in the United States Marine Corps, including 13 months of service in Vietnam.
Ken Williams is known for the outstanding band programs he developed at Meek High School and Haleyville High School. He was band director at Meek High School (Arley) from 1973-1980 and again from 1981-1990. He was band director at Gadsden High School for one school year in between the years at Meek. Mr. Williams served as band director at Haleyville High School from 1990 until his retirement in 2007.
Under his direction, the bands at Meek, Gadsden, and Haleyville received a “Superior” rating 22 times at the Alabama Bandmasters Association State Band Competition Festival. His concert and marching bands received “Superior” ratings and were named “Best in Class” at many band festivals in the United States, including Grand Champion at the University of Montevallo Concert Competition (1983), the St. Louis American Music Festival (2001), and the Orlando All-Star Music Festival (2000 and 2002).
Listen to this recording of the Meek High School Band and this recording of the Haleyville High School Band.
Mr. Williams served as president of the Alabama Bandmasters Association and president of the Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters Fraternity. He was a deacon of the First Baptist Church in Arley for over 10 years.
Mr. Williams was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 2004.
Suzanne Winter
Suzanne Winter retired in June 2007 after 33 years of teaching. She taught at Pizitz Middle School in Vestavia Hills for the last 13 years of her career. While at Pizitz, her bands consistently received superior ratings at district, state, and national festivals. Mrs. Winter was named District IV “Alabama Teacher of the Year” while at Pizitz as well as receiving the “John Philip Sousa Legion of Honor Award” for outstanding contributions to Middle School bands and music.
During her 33 years of teaching, Mrs. Winter’s band received over 28 years of “Superior” ratings at district, state, and national competitions and festivals. Prior to her position at Vestavia, Mrs. Winter taught at Rutledge Middle School (Midfield, Alabama) and at Smith Middle School (Birmingham). She was named Birmingham City Schools “Teacher of the Year” during her tenure in the City School System.
Mrs. Winter has been an active adjudicator and clinician for the past 35 years in Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Her educational background includes Troy State University (B.S. in music and English) and the University of Alabama (Master’s degree and AA Certificate in music education). Her affiliations/honors include MENC, NEA, Phi Beta Mu, Phi Kappa Phi, and Kappa Delta Pi. She continues her musical interests by mentoring and volunteering for local bands, as well as adjudicating and conducting honor and clinic bands.
Mrs. Winter was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 2020. Watch this Legacy Project Interview with Suzanne Winter.