Fayette County High School’s Rhoden makes Bandmaster history

By
The Citizen
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6
3406
Dr. Myra Rhoden
Dr. Myra Rhoden

Dr. Myra Rhoden, Director of Bands at Fayette County High, is making history. Dr. Rhoden has been elected to the prestigious American Bandmasters Association as one of the world’s most outstanding music educators. Additionally, she is the first African-American woman to receive the exceptional honor in the association’s 94 years.

“We’re extremely proud, honored, and excited for Dr. Rhoden’s future and what this recognition will do for her and also what this recognition will contribute to Fayette County High School Fine Arts, especially the instrumental music program,” said FCHS Principal Yolanda Briggs-Johnson. “Thank you Dr. Rhoden for serving, modeling, and being a stellar example for young girls, especially young girls of color all over the universe!”

The American Bandmasters Association, founded in 1929, with John Philip Sousa as Honorary Life President, recognizes outstanding achievement on the part of concert band conductors and composers. The current membership comprises approximately 300 band conductors and composers in the USA and Canada, and 80 Associate Members. — Story provided by the Fayette County School System.

6 COMMENTS

  1. I am so very proud of Rhoden, I am a former 4 year FCHS band student of Mr. Beard and Mr. McSwain, class of 1994. I began playing the trombone in middle school where Mr. McSwain taught me how to play as a beginner and Ms. Johnson was my director at Fayette Junior High. I took on the this instrument because my father played it in school also. I first met Ms. Rhoden at my church where I currently play in the orchestra, during a Christmas program for that I am so grateful. Congratulations on your many achievements, may God bless you with many many more!!!

  2. Awesome accomplishment Dr Rhoden for you, the arts, and the School. And a Thank you also goes out to both Mr. Don McSwain (Mr Mac) and Mr. Kenny Beard for keeping all the FCHS band programs going in the years prior as well! It was and still is, a great program for our youth!