Little named new director of bands at Jackson State

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) - The Sonic Boom of the South has a new leader at its helm, but he’s no stranger.

Dr. Roderick Little has been named director of bands at Jackson State University. He will replace Dowell Taylor, who is retiring in June after 34 years in that post.

At 34, Little is one of the youngest band directors in the school’s history, moving up from an assistant band director and instructor of music when he joined the department in 2012. He was appointed associate director of bands in 2013 and marching band director in 2015.

“Other than my family, this is amongst the highest honor that I have been bestowed. I am humbled and ready to propel our great program forward,” Little said in a statement.

Dr. Lisa Beckley-Roberts, interim chair of the Department of Music, called the leadership change the start of a new era for the band and music department.

“Mr. Taylor has done amazing work building the program, so we will miss him immensely. But, Dr. Little will build upon that legacy and take bands at JSU to the next level,” she said.

Little received his bachelor’s and master’s in music education from JSU. In 2019, he completed a doctorate in urban higher education.

Taylor said he is proud to pass the baton to Little. “Since 1984, I have boldly stood on the shoulders of past directors. Now, it’s time for a new generation of directors to stand on mine,” Taylor said.