History will be made when Savannah State University’s marching band performs against Central State University on September 14, 2024. Christopher Taylor will become the first white drum major in the program’s history.
Until now, all previous drum majors in SSU’s band program have been African American, with only four of them being women.
“I’m honored to be part of Savannah State’s history,” Taylor shared. “I want to make the school proud and contribute to the future of both the band and the city of Savannah.”
Taylor initially tried out for the role of drum major last spring but was unsuccessful. When asked why he auditioned again, he said, “I didn’t want to give up. Being drum major was a personal goal I set for myself when I first came to SSU, and I was determined to see it through.”
Drum majors act as extensions of the band director, but Taylor will share his responsibilities with fellow drum majors Aaron Franklin and head drum major Shai McKenney in leading the 125-member Powerhouse of the South.
SSU Director of Bands, Dr. Gabriel Arnold, refers to his drum majors as “field generals,” expecting them to oversee marching, training, cardio, discipline, and maintaining the band’s Powerhouse culture.
Taylor impressed during tryouts with his marching and communication skills, standing out from seven other candidates. “He gives 1000 percent every time he’s on the field,” Dr. Arnold remarked. “He also won over a lot of band members with his excellent communication skills.”
Savannah State has seen a few notable firsts in its drum major history. Kim Ogletree became the first female drum major in 1999-2000, followed by Cherrie Keitt in 2008-09, and LaErica Smith in 2021-22. Keitt reflected on her experience, saying, “It felt surreal. I knew I couldn’t mess it up because opportunities like this are rare.”
Keitt also offered advice for Taylor: “Enjoy the moment but understand it will be challenging. You’ll need to work twice as hard and avoid overthinking, as self-doubt is the last thing you want.”
Taylor, a third-year band member who previously played the trumpet, acknowledges the difficult decision Arnold faced in appointing him as drum major. “Losing a strong trumpet player can impact the band, but we have enough returning talent to fill the gap,” Arnold said.
Taylor’s former high school band director, Aubrey Simmons, who now serves as an assistant band director at SSU, shared his perspective. “Being a drum major carries more responsibility than it seems. It’s about more than just the whistle—you have to conduct yourself differently.”
Simmons, who once doubted Taylor’s potential as a drum major, praised his hard work and leadership. “He worked hard to become section leader and did an amazing job leading his peers.”
Simmons expressed pride in all his former students, especially those who continue their musical journeys in college. “I’m extremely proud of Chris and hope he won’t be the last collegiate drum major to come from my programs.”
Taylor credits his high school experience for influencing his decision to attend SSU, saying, “Bradwell’s band, especially under Mr. Simmons, played a big part in my choice. SSU felt like the right fit with its style and culture.”
Now a music education major, Taylor envisions teaching high brass after graduation and possibly becoming a band director, but his heart remains rooted in music.
