Recipients of the: Legacy Award in Music Education

Dr. James B. Oliver is the director of bands at Alabama State University (ASU). He is a strong advocate for music programs, and is in the midst of a twenty-eight-year career in music education. His positions include band instructor in the Dayton, Ohio Public School System as well as director of bands at Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio. Oliver holds a Bachelor's in music education from ASU, a master's in education from Wright State University, and a doctorate in education.

Since his arrival at ASU in 2000, Oliver has built a solid band program which includes the Mighty Marching Hornets, the Alabama State University Concert Band as well as a Pep Band. Under his leadership, the program has garnered countless competitive awards including Outstanding Symphonic Band Award, Outstanding Jazz Band Award, City of Montgomery Certificate of Recognition, and the 2006 Distinguished Alumni Award given by National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education.

The ASU band has performed around the country, including appearances at the Honda Battle of the Bands Invitational, the Georgia Dome, and most recently on the Ellen Degeneres Show.