Who is Mr. Downs?
So, a few students asked me some questions, and I figured it would be a good idea to answer those questions in this format, and just to tell a little about myself.
Education:
James F. Byrnes High School - 2001
Winthrop University - Bachelor of Music Education - 2007
Southern Wesleyan University - Masters of Education - 2010
Did you always want to be a band director?
No, I wanted to be a meteorologist. I’m a geography and history geek, and the power of weather interest me. Most band kids know I pay close attention to the weather.
When did you know you wanted to be a band director?
When I was in high school, I knew music would be my path in life, but didn’t know exactly how it would work. One day in concert band class, one of our band directors was telling a story and it just clicked…maybe I want to be a band director.
What all instruments can you play?
The true answer is I can make a sound on all the wind instruments, and can at least play the Bb scale (except double reeds). Piano is my main instrument I’ve played since I was 4 years old, and in middle school band, I started on the French Horn. In high school, I switched to percussion in marching band, and studied percussion in college.
Disclaimer: I cannot play a stringed instrument. That’s everything from guitar to the orchestra instruments.
What are those medals in your office?
Blue - South Carolina State Marching Band Champion medallions
Red - South Carolina State Marching Band runner-up (2nd place) medallions
Red/White/Blue in the middle - Bands of America Regional Champion medallions
As a student
1997 AAAA State Runner-up
1998 AAAA State Champion
1999 AAAA State Champion
2000 AAAA State Champion
1999 Bands of America Regional Champion
2000 Bands of American Regional Class Champion
As an instructor
2001 AAA State Runner-up
2002 AA State Champion
2003 AAA State Runner-up
I also have three medallions on my desk
2005 AAA State Champion
2016 SCBDA Winter Ensemble 3rd place - Winterguard
2018 SCBDA Winter Ensemble runner-up - Indoor Percussion
What prepared you the most to become a band director?
I was privileged to work for a few great band directors while in college. They trusted me, allowed me to make mistakes along the way, built my confidence, and developed my strengths. I also got to experiment with writing music, and that helped a lot!
Did you ever march drum corps or DCI?
Well…in 2002, I auditioned and got a contract from Spirit of Atlanta (then Spirit of JSU). I went to a few camps, and eventually quit mainly because my riding partner was cut from the battery, and he was my ride back and forth to Jacksonville, Alabama. I do regret it, but at the same time I would have missed winning a state marching band championships teaching, so it all works out.
What makes Chesnee such a special place to work?
My dream band job is a smaller school in Spartanburg County. I’ve never wanted to be a band director of a huge band. I’ve learned that small band is my niche, and I enjoy getting to know all the kids.
Chesnee is a combination of all the places I’ve worked. It’s familiar, yet has it’s own unique style and flair. AND, the support is awesome.
What do you enjoy about marching band?
band camp!!
seeing the show come together late in the season
the rush of emotions at the end of a really good run!
What are your big professional goals?
receive the OPA (outstanding performance award)
perform at a Bands of America Regional or Grand National Championship
medal at the state championship as a director
perform in the Macy*s Thanksgiving Day Parade