Jackson State University has named Dowell Taylor it new director of bands. Taylor, a 1976 alumnus and former member of the Sonic Boom of the South marching band, has served as interim band director since April. The Jackson native holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in music education from Jackson State and studied wind conducting at the University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music.
Taylor is familiar with the role. As JSU’s director of bands from 1984 to 1992, he led the Sonic Boom to nationally televised performances at Motown’s 30th Anniversary Celebration and the NBA All-Star Basketball game.
Taylor said he is excited about his future with Jackson State’s bands.
“I have a unique opportunity to continue to develop a group of instrumentalists into a fine marching machine,” said Taylor.