By Brandi Miller for the FCT

Red Bay High School Band director Jonathan Hill was recently able to add another accolade to his list of achievements. Hill, in his first year as the RBHS band director, led a group of honor band students at Samford University Jan. 7-9.

“Professionally, it is a great honor to be selected to lead an honor band,” said Hill. “Few band directors ever have this opportunity. Musically, it is an honor to work with so many great, young musicians to make beautiful music.”

Hill was asked by Dr. Demondrae Thurman, director of graduate studies for the School of the Arts at Samford University, if he would lead the honor band. And of course, there was no way Hill was going to pass up the opportunity.

“I had to research and select appropriate music for the students I would be working with over the weekend,” said Hill. “I also spent hours studying the musical scores to best lead and work with the students.”

While the entire experience is one he will never forget and will forever be thankful for, Hill said there are some moments that will always stand out as his favorite memories from the weekend.

“The best part is always the culminating event,” said Hill. “The performance for friends, family and loved ones at the concert is the best part of the experience. It was a true joy.”

Hill said he wishes to extend a special thank you to the Samford University School of the Arts and Thurman for the special opportunity. He also thanked his wife Elizabeth and their families for their support.