Red Bay’s Kirk: Transition will be challenging for UNA band

RED BAY — High School band Director Brandon Kirk said uncertainty surrounding the University of North Alabama’s band program remains following the announced retirement of longtime Director of Bands Dr. Lloyd Jones.

Kirk, who was part of UNA’s band program from 2014 to 2019, said the situation has left area high school band directors and students facing questions about the program’s future.

“There are a lot of uncertainties,” Kirk said. “I’ve had students go to UNA, and I’ve always been proud of them.”

Kirk said he has not gotten many recent requests for students interested in going to UNA. With the resignation of Jones last week, he said he would take a thoughtful approach if students asked for guidance.

“With so many questions, I would want to sit down one-on-one with students,” Kirk said. “Dr. Jones is a great director, and I have a lot of respect for him. I appreciate everything he did for me. I would encourage students to do their own research and make decisions based on what’s best for them.”

Kirk said any leadership change in a band program built around a longtime director is likely to bring challenges.

Drawing from personal experience, Kirk said he understands what UNA’s band students are going through.

“I had a longtime band director leave when I was in high school, and it wasn’t easy,” he said. “A lot of people left when that happened.”

Despite the uncertainties, Kirk said he still regards the UNA band program as strong.

“The program is great, and my students always enjoy watching them perform,” he said. “I wish the band the best and hope all goes well.”

For students currently weighing their options, Kirk said priorities should differ depending on their longterm goals.

“For students pursuing a music education degree, you really have to think about the quality of education you’re going to receive,” he said. “That should come first.”

For those participating in band primarily for the experience rather than a career in music, Kirk said the decision may be easier.

“There are less stakes for those students,” he said.

As UNA moves forward with plans to hire a new band director, Kirk anticipates things getting harder before they get easier.

“There’s going to be a drop-off,” he said. “I feel for whoever takes over, and I hope they succeed. It will take time for everyone to get used to a new normal.”