A Special Award of
The John Philip Sousa Foundation
James (Jim) Kilgus is the Co-Director of Bands at Mauldin Middle School in Simpsonville, South Carolina. His 32 years in music education have all been served in Greenville County Schools. Jim is also conductor of the Carolina Youth Symphony and Concert Orchestra. Between 2010 and 2013, Jim oversaw 36 district band programs as Lead Teacher for Greenville County Schools. He served as Coordinator / Assistant Coordinator of the Greenville County Schools Honor Bands from 1997 through 2023.
Jim received the National Band Association Citation of Excellence in 2012. He received the Mauldin Middle School Teacher of the Year Award in 2010. His ensembles have received the SCBDA Outstanding Performance Award every year the award was available, 2004 to 2023. Jim is also a Phi Beta Mu member since 2009.
Kilgus received his Bachelors in Music Education from Furman University and his Masters in Music Education from the University of Cincinnati Conservatory of Music.
- The Bandworld Legion of Honor was established in 1989 to honor, over the course of a year, eight of the finest band directors in our business.
- Recipients have taught for at least fifteen years, have maintained a very high-quality concert band program, and have contributed significantly to the profession through dedication to bands and band music.
- Each is honored at the annual Sousa Foundation awards ceremony during the Midwest Band Clinic in Chicago, Illinois.
- Chairman of the Legion of Honor Committee is Terry Austin, Virginia Commonwealth University.
When asked what factors do you consider most important in shaping your career, Jim states, “The overwhelming factor that has shaped my career is the cultivation of professional associates and mentors. I learned early on that developing a successful band program is a huge endeavor that demands very diverse knowledge bases. Fortunately, I was surrounded by seasoned professionals who were willing to help guide my youthful inexperience. I built relationships with local directors who were dynamic motivators and exceptional organizers. I sought out the very best instrumental pedagogists to learn how to maximize instructional time. I found a successful director that helped me balance the stresses of teaching with enjoying life. Every aspect of my career has been improved by learning from the wisdom of others.”
His professional philosophy statement is, “The guiding philosophy of my career is the belief that instrumental music study can be a transformational experience for students. The process offers opportunities for students to learn about themselves, those around them, and the world. As an educator, it is a privilege to be a part of these formative moments in student’s lives.”
