Unveiling the Masque examines the lived experiences of African American band directors and how identity, institutional context, and systemic factors shape access, opportunity, and engagement in music education. Findings highlight culturally responsive leadership, equitable practices, and strategies that expand participation, strengthen representation, and support inclusive music learning environments.
Thurman Hollins
- Biographical Information
Dr. Thurman Hollins, a native of Conway, South Carolina, holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Norfolk State University, a Master of Music from Winthrop University, and a Ph.D. in Music Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. With more than 30 years in music and 18 years as an educator, he has served in leadership roles at Highland Springs High School (VA), Johnson C. Smith University, Saint Augustine’s University, North Carolina Central University, Claflin University, and Myrtle Beach High School. At the collegiate level, he has taught music history, music technology, music education, and euphonium.
His ensembles have performed at nationally televised events including the Celebration Bowl and MEAC/SWAC Championship, as well as major parades, exhibitions, and professional conferences such as the North Carolina Music Educators Association Conference. Dr. Hollins is an active clinician, adjudicator, and consultant for secondary and collegiate band programs across the Southeast. He has received numerous honors, including First-Year Teacher of the Year (Henrico County, VA), marching band Grand Champion awards, superior festival ratings, and a Virginia Board of Education resolution. An author and scholar, he wrote Diary of a Mad Band Director, HBCU Band Alumni Vol. 2, and the dissertation Unveiling the Masque. He presents nationally on HBCU band history, teacher identity, and equity in music education.