EMU Today

YPSILANTI – Chandler L. Wilson, who has an extensive background in teaching, composing and arranging music and leading young musicians, has been named associate director of bands and director of the Eastern Michigan University Marching Band.

Wilson comes to Ypsilanti from Florida State University, where he recently completed his Ph.D. in music education, with an emphasis in conducting. In addition to directing the EMU Marching Band and basketball pep band, Wilson will conduct Eastern’s Symphonic Band and teach courses in music education and conducting.

“Chandler’s background in public school education, his exceptional work with collegiate ensembles, and success as a composer/arranger are strong indicators of the musical leadership he will provide our students,” said Mary K. Schneider, director of bands at Eastern Michigan. "We look forward to welcoming Dr. Wilson’s artistry, energy and vision to the EMU School of Music & Dance and its University Band program.”

The EMU Marching Band has a long tradition of musical and entertainment excellence. Comprised of roughly 200 students representing nearly every major on campus, “The Pride of the Peninsula” boasts a rich, 125-year history of serving Eastern at athletic functions, parades, and events. 

Wilson, a native of Miami, attended Florida A&M University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in music education as a saxophone principal, and served as the University Band President. During his time at FAMU, Wilson was selected as the student arranger and conductor.

He later earned a Master of Arts in Wind Band Conducting from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Wilson is a published composer who has had many of his compositions premiered and performed on the concert band stage with All-County/District Honor Bands and All-State Bands. In addition to time as a guest conductor and clinician of concert bands, he is also in demand as an arranger for many high school and collegiate marching bands across the country.

Wilson served as band director of Hollywood Hills High School in Florida from 2008-2012. Under his direction, the students consistently earned superior ratings in concert and marching band. Wilson also served as band director at Cooper City High School from 2014-2016, in Cooper City, FL. Under his leadership, the Cooper City Marching Band participated in the Sugar Bowl’s marching band competition and was named “Grand Champions.”

Wilson began work at Eastern the week of July 15, and will oversee band camp next month.

About Eastern Michigan University

Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 18,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Health and Human Services; Technology, and its graduate school. EMU is regularly recognized by national publications for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website.