While many educators have helped maintain the band through the years, the person who built the program was Morris Stevens.
The Cheatham County School Board voted Monday, June 5 to name the SMS Band Room as the “Morris and Diane Stevens Band Room” in honor of Mr. Stevens and his late wife.
Mr. Stevens has committed his life to music education in Middle Tennessee, teaching in Columbia, Clarksville, Trevecca University, Vanderbilt University and ending his career at SMS.
He served on the Executive Committee of the Middle Tennessee School Band and Orchestra Association, where he provided opportunities for students across the state to participate in a festival environment and to get feedback from some of the nation’s most renowned music educators.
With his help, the events continue today, including the MTSBOA Concert Performance Assessment, where there are more than 10 full days of performances by the bands of Middle Tennessee.
He was also essential in the creation of the Austin Peay State University Concert Festival, where students have the opportunity to meet and work with prominent conductors.