Huntsville, Alabama: A Journey of Passion and Perseverance
James Phillips, a bright-eyed sophomore at Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University (AAMU), had quite the experience at band camp during his freshman year. When he first arrived, he was full of confidence, having been a standout performer in high school with his snare drum skills. “I had a big head,” he chuckled, reflecting on that quirky yet humbling introduction to college life.
A Wake-Up Call
Phillips traveled all the way from Charlotte, North Carolina, thinking that the transition to band camp would be a cakewalk. Little did he know that AAMU would teach him a lesson in humility. “I saw that I wasn’t really working at all,” he acknowledged. When band camp started, he got the surprise of his life: he didn’t make it onto the snare line! Instead, he found himself playing quints, which are a set of five tenor drums.
But not one to back down, Phillips seized the opportunity and worked hard. “By the end of the week, I was able to re-audition for my spot, and I got my snare back.” Talk about perseverance! Now, he’s not just any student; he serves as the assistant section leader for the drumline, an impressive role usually reserved for upperclassmen.
Rivalry at the Classic
Cue the excitement! On October 26, 2024, AAMU’s marching band, known as The Marching Maroon and White, will showcase their talent at the 83rd annual McDonald’s Magic City Classic, battling it out against their rivals, The Mighty Marching Hornets of Alabama State University (ASU). “ASU is our rival, and there’s something more exciting about playing against them,” Phillips noted. “When it’s your rival, you have something extra to give.”
Family Values and Encouragement
Phillips credits a lot of his growth to his older brother, Myles Sewell, who played in the same band from 2018 to 2023. The two shared a year together in the snare line, where Myles imparted crucial advice. “He told me that just because he was my brother didn’t mean I was going to walk in here and have everything handed to me,” Phillips recounted.
Finding His Rhythm
Interestingly, Phillips didn’t always know he would become the percussion powerhouse he is today. After not making the basketball team in fourth grade, he found himself encouraged by his dad to explore other extracurricular activities. As fate would have it, he discovered his passion for drumming, which he says is “the cream of the crop.”
By sixth grade, he was already the youngest member of the marching band at Julius L. Chambers High School. He even led the drumline during his freshman year of high school. “Being in Drills of Hope taught me confidence and how to lead by example,” Phillips explained.
Leadership Style
As the assistant percussion section leader, he holds a unique leadership style. He describes it as “laid back,” yet he has high expectations for himself and his fellow drummers. Phillips is proud of how he manages to foster a supportive team atmosphere. “Being calm rubs off on the people you’re teaching and builds a relaxed environment,” he reasoned, emphasizing the importance of communication.
A Well-Rounded Life
Between his rigorous academic schedule—he’s currently taking 16 credit hours in mechanical engineering—and leading his drum section, Phillips juggles responsibilities with ease. Daily rehearsals are an essential part of the routine, focusing on building confidence and refining skills. “Marching in a historically Black college and university band, your confidence is everything,” he pointed out.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Phillips is planning to shift his focus post-graduation. “I’ll always love the drumline, but I’ve been doing this for a long time,” he said thoughtfully. He envisions a future in construction engineering, aiming for a role that allows him to work behind the scenes. “I want to oversee maintenance on construction sites in Dallas, Texas, where some family lives,” he shared enthusiastically.
Life Lessons from Band
Phillips knows that his journey in marching band has shaped him into who he is. “This has taught me that achieving larger goals comes from tackling smaller ones,” he concluded. Band life has been more than just music for him; it’s been a powerful tool for personal growth and a clear roadmap for what lies ahead.
Mark your calendars for the Magic City Classic—where rivalry meets artistry! Remember, the battle kicks off at 2:30 p.m. at Birmingham’s famous Legion Field.
