News Summary
Sydney Rush, a talented musician from Jonesboro, is pursuing her Master of Music Education at the University of Mississippi. As a graduate assistant, she plays a significant role in the Ole Miss Bands and is passionate about nurturing young musicians. Rush’s dedication to her craft and commitment to advancing equity in music education make her a promising figure in band leadership.
Sydney, Arkansas – Sydney Rush, a talented musician from Jonesboro, is on the path to making her dreams come true as she advances her music career at the University of Mississippi. Currently serving as a graduate assistant for the Ole Miss Bands, her journey began in sixth grade when she participated in band tryouts on a whim, encouraged by her best friend. Now, as she works towards her Master of Music Education with an expected graduation date in May 2025, Rush exemplifies the dedication and passion she has for music education and performance.
Rush holds a bachelor’s degree in music education from Arkansas State University, where she actively participated in various musical ensembles. Originally playing clarinet in the wind ensemble, she made a significant switch to euphonium at the suggestion of her band director upon entering college. This quick adaptation showcases her versatility and commitment to her musical development. In the summer of 2022, she gained significant experience performing with the renowned Blue Stars Drum and Bugle Corps, further enriching her background in music.
As the first person in her family to pursue a career in music, Rush has long aspired to become a band director. Her passion is not just about conducting; she is deeply invested in helping young musicians discover their instruments and cultivate their skills through participation in band. Tim Oliver, director of bands at Ole Miss, has played a crucial role in her journey, having recognized her potential back in high school. With a strong endorsement from Oliver, Rush transitioned into her role as a graduate assistant at Ole Miss, where she has demonstrated excellence as both a musician and a scholar.
At Ole Miss, Rush is actively involved in the band program, specifically contributing to the “Pride of the South.” She collaborates with the associate director, Randy Dale, on writing the drill for the 2024 pregame show, showcasing her growing expertise outside of performance. Her responsibilities extend beyond the creative aspects of band management, as she oversees equipment, uniforms, organizes auditions, and coordinates rehearsals and travel for the ensemble. Notably, she has had the opportunity to travel with the band to prestigious events, including the 2025 NCAA women’s basketball tournament and the 2023 Peach Bowl.
During her two years at Ole Miss, Rush has built a supportive community among her peers and faculty. Her dedication to her studies is evidenced by her master’s thesis, titled “The Feminomenon of Athletic Band Directing: A Multiple Case Study.” This research addresses the underrepresentation of women in collegiate marching band leadership roles. Her thesis advisor, Elizabeth Hearn, commended Rush for her insightful exploration of female athletic band directors and the qualitative research she has undertaken.
In recognition of her hard work, Rush received the Graduate Achievement Award in Music and the Outstanding Graduate Student Award from the Department of Music. In addition to her work with the marching band, Rush continues to expand her musical horizons by performing with the Wind Ensemble and participating in the University Chorus and Glee ensembles, despite having no prior singing experience.
Rush has ambitious goals for her future. She aspires to earn a doctorate in musical arts or wind conducting, but she plans to gain experience in public education before pursuing further academic achievements. Ultimately, her goal is to lead a Division I marching band, ideally within the Southeastern Conference, serving as an advocate for female band directors and striving for greater equity and inclusion in the field of music education.
Sydney Rush’s journey from a sixth-grade band tryout to becoming a graduate assistant positions her as a promising figure in the world of music education and band leadership. With her commitment to uplifting fellow musicians and her contributions to collegiate marching bands, she is poised to have a lasting impact in the field.
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Additional Resources
- Jonesboro Right Now: Sydney Rush’s Musical Journey
- Waller Funeral Home: Ruth McEvoy Roberts Obituary
- Oxford Magazine: Education Excellence
- Oxford Eagle: Baughman & Beard Leadership
- Oxford Eagle: Elizabeth Ann Smith Wilson
- Wikipedia: Music Education
- Google Search: Music Education
- Google Scholar: Music Education
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Music Education
- Google News: Music Education
