Monticello Grad Leads Band at Valdosta
James T. Sampson, a Jasper County High School (JCHS) Class of 2014 alumnus made his debut as a Valdosta State University (VSU) Blazin’ Brigade drum major on September 3.
Mr. Sampson, a former Marching Hurricane drum major, currently attends VSU as a junior marketing major. The spirited young man is back at it again but instead of the Friday night lights it’s the Saturday lights for him marching alongside senior Bailey Hallman as drum majors for the Blazin’ Brigade Marching Band. He is under the new Director of Athletics Bands Tonya Mitchell.
James made his college drum major debut at Bazemore-Hyde Stadium in Valdosta and some 13 members of his family (mostly Jasper County natives) were on hand to watch his debut. He believes he is making history as the first from Jasper County to become a university drum major.
James auditioned and competed against seven other individuals for the drum major role. Some of the tasks involved in the audition process included demonstrating advanced skill in score reading, tempo recognition and conducting a prepared selection, Judging was completed by three different band directors from three different universities as well as former Blazin’ Brigade band director, Eric Bradshaw.
“The drum majors for the Blazin’ Brigade Marching Band are selected based on their record of impeccable marching and playing in the band program, their ability to lead large groups of their peers, and their ability to conduct the 140-member marching band. The drum majors act as direct liaisons between the director and the marchers, often leading sectionals, rehearsals, and events. These individuals are the face of the program and represent the ideal qualities of a marching band member,” noted Director Mitchell, who serves as the first female African-American band director at VSU.
“It was a very emotional but natural transition for me becoming a university drum major and leading our 140 plus marching ensemble with color guards and dancers It’s very rewarding being in the Brigade, surrounded with such a tight, fun and united family, with opportunity to be involved with the city of Valdosta .I hope that I can make a difference and inspire others and let them know that nothing is impossible with hard work and dedication. I must give Mr. Savage JCHS music director much credit and honor for giving me the opportunity to join the Marching Hurricanes in 2011,” said Mr. Sampson
“I was able to gain unforgettable memories, experiences, personal and musical growth just from the years of his teachings. I would not be where I am today as a person or leader without the chance that Mr. Savage on took me to become a musician. Thanks again,” he said to Mr. Savage.
In James’ sophomore year at JCHS, the band director asked if he wanted to join the Marching Hurricanes. Indeed he did and spent two years on the drum line before becoming the drum major as a senior. During his senior year, James placed in the Top 10 of 105 drum majors at the University of Georgia 2014 summer camp just prior to auditioning for the Blazin’ Brigade during the VSU summer camp.
“James is that ‘perfect leader’ we always dream of. He gives off an energy that motivates others around him to put forth their best, and in the band aspect, it creates a special chemistry amongst the members and which allows for optimal performances. Although James has a great deal of power in his hands, he remains humble, and prioritizes his service, as well as providing us with a consistency and precision with every rehearsal, along with many more of his countless contributions to the band program,” commented Ikeyla Thomas, a junior sousaphone player in the Blazin’ Brigade.
If you want to experience the Blazin’ Brigade live in action, their next home game will be Saturday, Sept. 24 at 7 p.m. during Parent’s Weekend. They will also be performing in the Heart of Georgia Marching Exhibition in Warner Robins on October 29.
