Testimonials

Lamar Phillips was the McNair Elementary Cluster Band Director for the DeKalb County School System in Atlanta, Georgia.  Outside of my love for singing and learning piano I did not understand the depth of my love for music.  During my second grade year, I can vividly remember him walking into my class probably after one of his band classes and introducing me to various instruments and their sounds. I became very curious about my own ability to make music. Most students 1st instrument of choice was a drum. My instrument of love, was the flute. I didn’t choose music; I feel as if music chose me. It became the one thing I was most passionate about. My mother signed me up on the basis that I would stick to it and keep up my grades. Being a part of the band program did things I never imagined were possible.

Working with Mr. Phillips at an early age brought out great qualities that helped to shape the person that I am today. He taught me discipline, expected academic excellence, helped me develop the confidence to stand before many crowds and produce under pressure, showed me not only how to be a great student but a great teacher as well, taught me responsibility, kept me humble, helped me overcome fear, taught me to push through obstacles and finally never to give up. 

These qualities and more have played a part in shaping me as an adult. They have certainly influenced the way that I teach and have laid a foundation for a great love for music and the arts that I now share with many young people. Not only as a musician but as a song writer and dancer as well. -Angela D.