Floyd Donald started my musical life teaching me how to play the saxophone. My older brothers had already joined band and he invited me to catch up with them. As I learned the to play music I learned commitment, and discipline from his teachings. He insisted on things being done correctly and responsibly. Life skills. His influence in my musical life has led to my 40 year career as a band director in Georgia.
The following is a little story line of
conversations with me, Mr. Donald and my late parents during my youth as a student in his band.
When he placed me on saxophone he said this is the perfect instrument for you. I said ok. As time went by and I was so inquisitive with frequent questions he said my questions are really good. He said those are the type questions teachers ask. He heard me buzz the mouthpiece of a trumpet and trombone and said that was great too. He then said not only can you play the instrument, you could teach it too. As time went by, he said this is your calling Jeffrey Rowser. You could do this easily.
Later he told mom that
he bets God is going to call me into band directing He knew my families upbringing and faith. Wow! Im still doing it! Dr. Randy B Kelley Senior pastor at Goodsell United Methodist Church I met many Civil Rights Legends such as Dr. Ralph Abernathy, Dr. C. T. Vivian and Dr.
Fred Shuttlesworth working with Floyds Dr. King Day Celebration. In addition, Floyd gave me a daily talk show on WMGJ Radio Station. This gave me a platform for community activism and later enabled me to obtain talk shows in Birmingham and Anniston.
In addition, I am thankful Floyd honored me by inviting me to speak for a Black History Program where he honored 50 Black Male History Makers.
Floyd Donald was an activist and a history maker. I am grateful for social consciousness, black pride and his influence on my life.