August 23, 2011 (Jackson) - The Blazer Marching Band is welcoming Cory Gray as their new drum major. After a hard week of training, marching and interviews, Gray was chosen to lead and direct Belhaven talented band members.
Paxton Girtmon, Associate Professor of Music and the Director of Bands, comments, "I have seen tremendous growth in Gray spiritually, professionally, and musically. Becoming Drum Major is just the first step of a long and productive musical career."
Gray is a junior at Belhaven, getting his degree in music with an emphasis in composition and performance. After graduating from South Panola High School, he completed his studies at Hinds Community College.
Originally from Memphis, Gray always had a passion for music. He has composed and arranged music for The Belhaven Wind Ensemble, Ensembles at Hinds Community College and The Mississippi Symphony Orchestra. Gray also worked with high school students on Clarinet, Tenor Saxophone, Euphonium, and Tuba.
After earning his degree, he plans to attend Belhaven’s graduate program to earn his Masters of Education.
Gray said, "Being a drum major, you must be a leader not only around the band, but within the classroom and community. I pray that I can successfully serve my fellow musicians gracefully and continue to lift up the name of Jesus through the talents He has given me. Im honored to be chosen Drum Major for the band. To God be the glory."
Belhaven proudly stands among the select Christian colleges and universities that offer a unique general core curriculum encouraging the development of a personal worldview. The university believes a Christian worldview is a key to preparing men and women academically and spiritually to serve Christ Jesus in their careers, in human relationships, and in the world of ideas.
Founded in 1883, Belhaven University now serves over 3,000 students from campuses in Jackson, Memphis, Orlando, Houston, Chattanooga, Atlanta and online, offering traditional undergraduate degrees, graduate and adult degree programs, and online degree programs.