About David
Dr. Julian White, Distinguished Professor/DOB Emeritus-FAMU, with David Gregory
Carmela Maffongelli, Soprano Soloist-Rome Opera Theater (Performing "O Mio Babbino Caro")
Former Hardaway High School Band Students of Dr. Gregory traveling in Spain
Dr. David Gregory is a highly successful teacher/conductor who has earned accolades from his profession through his work with musicians at all levels. His recognitions are numerous, and he has served his profession in many appointed and elected positions, including President of the National Band Association. He has been featured as a keynote speaker at music conferences, served as a consultant for numerous school systems, and his adjudication and conducting invitations have taken him throughout the United States, Great Britain, and Western Europe.
His bands have performed for more than 40 conferences of regional and national significance, including the Midwest Clinic (3x), the American Bandmasters Association National Convention (3x), the National and Southern Division MENC conventions (4x), and the GMEA In-service conference (14x). Personal and professional awards for Dr. Gregory include numerous National Band Association “Citations of Excellence,” the Phi Delta Kappa “Excellence in Leadership Education Award,” the Sudler Foundation “Order of Merit,” the “GMEA Distinguished Career Award,” and the Kappa Kappa Psi “Distinguished Service in Music Medal.” He is a member of the Phi Beta Mu “Georgia Bandmasters Hall of Fame,” the “National High School Band Directors Hall of Fame,” and was named a “Midwest Legend” in 2021. Gregory was elected to the National Band Association's "Hall of Fame of Distinguished Conductors" in 2020, and was the initial recipient of the NBA's “Presidential Medal of Distinction" in 2023.
His book, entitled "Students as Teachers...Things They Taught Me; Life Lessons They Gave Me” has received wide acclaim as a "must-read" for teachers and directors.
The Georgia Wind Symphony, Dr. David Gregory - Conductor Emeritus
After spending more than fifty years teaching young people, I began reflecting on some things I hadn't fully appreciated while I was in the middle of rehearsals, football games, theory lessons, bus trips, administrative requirements, and all the wonderful chaos that accompanies teaching.
I discovered that while I had spent a career teaching students, they had quietly spent those same years teaching me.
Some taught me about perseverance. Some taught me about belonging. Some taught me about discovering joy. And some even taught me it was OK to laugh at myself.
Those lessons became a book called “Students as Teachers.” The lessons are shared as stories, and perhaps they'll remind you of students who changed your own life along the way. Enjoy the stories and lessons.
James Seda, Omar Thomas, & David Gregory
David Gregory & Col. Hal Gibson, Conductor Emeritus-The U.S. Army Field Band
Soloist Joy McCarthy. Conductors Kim Bain, David Gregory, Alfio Zito, Randall Coleman - Sicily Concert
Jay Gephart, David Gregory, & Col. Don Schofield-Commander/Conductor, The United States Air Force Band
David Gregory, Former Student Vincent Rosse, and Sonja Rosse
David Gregory and Robert Sheldon - American Bandmasters Association Convention
David Gregory, Abigail Russom, Sheila Smith - NBA/CBDNA Conference
Dr. Myra Rhoden and David Gregory - American Bandmasters Association Convention.
"I think this book should be in the hands of every person who steps in front of a musical organization. Dr. David Gregory brings to us a “book of wisdom” unlike any other. His own extraordinary legacy of success serves as a journey of lifelong research for the foundation of this ‘must-read.’ He offers a review of the many experiences that have catapulted him to the forefront of the profession, focusing on the ultimate WHY of the WHAT and HOW of our vocational pathways. Dr. Gregory reaches beyond the pedagogical blueprint and spotlights the REALITY of the teaching community and the immeasurable benefits of banding together." Tim Lautzenheiser, Founder-Attitude Concepts for Today
"Dr. David Gregory has been my mentor and teacher for almost forty years and as a band director myself for nearly thirty years, 1 can confirm that my students also give me so much more than I could ever give them. This book, much like a rehearsal with Dr. Gregory, isn't really about music. It's about the aspiration toward becoming the best version of ourselves. It's about a life well lived. And I'm proud to confirm that the truths revealed within are the very lessons Dr. Gregory has not only taught but also has lived as an example for his many students!" Garrick Cheyne, Georgia High School Band Director
"An inspiring read for all educators—not just those in music. David Gregory is the quintessential storyteller; he draws you in with genuine, heartfelt wisdom that makes you feel like a part of his journey. This collection of remembrances serves as a beautiful reminder that even in today’s fast-paced, high-gratification world, the bond between teacher and student remains sacred. Thank you, David, for illustrating how special that connection can be and for never apologizing for demanding our very best.”Randall Coleman, Chair, The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Music Department/Director of Bands, UTC
"As I read the book, every page triggered a comparable story in my very own career! David Gregory shares how music was a simple connection for so much life and reality to learn and support in his students! Once you read Dr. Gregory's writings, you will read them again! My 2nd and 3rd times, I highlighted some great, impactful stories and lessons! His book reminds me of the powerful impact of what we learn that our colleges/universities cannot predict! Colleagues in any field, you will love this wonderful book! You just might discover or rediscover your WHY!" Jeffrey Rowser, Fine Arts Department Chair/High School Band Director
“If you need a reminder of why you started teaching in the first place, this is the perfect book for you. Dr. David Gregory inspires through his thoughtful stories and anecdotes, proving that even the smallest moment can have a lasting impact on students and their teachers. Regardless of discipline, “Students as Teachers” is a wonderful read that will leave you smiling and inspired.” Dr. Jennie Fabianski, High School Chorus & Musical Theater Director
"Having spent 50 years in education—including the years I worked alongside David Gregory at Hardaway High School—I can say with confidence that Students as Teachers captures a truth too many new teachers take years to discover: our students are often our best instructors, if we’re humble enough to listen. David writes with the authority of someone who lived this philosophy in the classroom, not just theorized about it. For young teachers just starting out, this book offers a shortcut past the trial-and-error most of us endured, showing how genuine curiosity about your students can transform both their learning and your teaching. It’s a book I wish I’d had on day one of my career, and one I recommend to every new teacher I mentor today.” Wayne Reynolds, Ed.D. Alabama State Board of Education
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