South Carolina State University Bands

           SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY BANDS have a long and distinguished history. In 1918 Mr. William H. Jackson is credited as being the first band director at South Carolina State College. He was followed in 1924 by Mr. Fred Bugard Payton. Following Mr. Payton (1925-1928) the band was run by students with guidance from Mr. Harold June who also was a student at the time. Following Mr. June was Mr. Earl Davis (1931-1934).  From 1934 through 1943 the band was under the direction of Mr. Reginald Thomasson. In 1943, Mr. Thomasson left and returned in 1949, where he was Director of bands until his retirement. Under Mr. Thomasson were several band directors including Dr. CV Troupe. Dr. Troupe is credited with giving the current name to the marching band, as it is presently called "Marching 101." Mr. Marcus Rowland (1966-67) followed Dr. Troupe, as well as Mr. Clifford Watkins (1967-71), Mr. Edwin B. Hughes (1971-73), James R. Sochinski  (1973-75),  and  Mr. Issac Richardson (1975-76) . Mr. Ronald Sarjeant became the Director of bands in 1976, and served in this capacity until 2004.  Under his leadership The Marching, Symphonic and Jazz bands appeared and performed at many conferences, NFL football games, parades, as well as community and university events. Also Graduates of the SCSU band have and currently serve as music educators throughout the state and nation. The present Director of Bands is Mr. Eddie Ellis.