New band director continues legacy

Michael Magruder, WSSU’s new marching band director, is proof that the old adage “good things come to those who wait” is true. After 22 years of waiting and preparing, Magruder’s dreams are finally being realized. He has taken over from Emory Jones, who spent nearly a decade as director of bands. Magruder comes to WSSU from Jackson State University where he was associate band director. But he wants to make sure everyone understands that he’s not trying to turn the band here into a mirror image of Jackson State. “Winston-Salem State has long had a rich history of bands,” said Magruder. “I want to continue the legacy and tradition, and merely enhance what is already here.” Known as a staunch disciplinarian, with a superior knowledge of bands, Magruder is excited about taking the reigns of the Winston-Salem State University Marching Band. He said he plans to put the most disciplined, best sounding band on the field possible every week. “With discipline, comes excellence,” he said. “I realize we aren’t going to be the biggest or loudest band, I just want to go out there and finesse some schools.” He realizes however that some people have a tough time understanding his hard-nosed band philosophy. He’s had some people quit, because they found it difficult adjusting to his disciplined approach. He doesn’t view this as a set back, however, because he has what he likes to call his soldiers. These are the students who understand his ultimate goals, and are willing to do whatever it takes to help get there. “These kids are my foundation,” said Magruder. “These are the kids I want to take into battle with me every week. I want them to know that they are a part of something special. I will always remember my first band.” Magruder said it will take about three years to raise the band to a standard that he appreciates, and he maintains that he can only get there with a proper investment from the University. “An investment in facilities, equipment, and scholarships must be made in order to take this band ito the next level,” said Magruder. With a strong commitment from the University as well as an all-out recruitment effort, Magruder expects a bright future for the ban, with special projects such as bowl games and parades. “I want to expose the world to this band program as well as the University,” he said. Teaching his students music and marching techniques isn’t the most important aspect of Magruder’s job. He wants to be a positive influence on all of his students. “I want each one of my student’s to be the most effective person they can be,” he said.