https://doi.org/10.1177/1536600617720760
Journal of Historical Research
in Music Education
1–21
© The Author(s) 2017
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DOI: 10.1177/1536600617720760
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Original Article
Influences of Segregation
and Integration on the Bands
at Historically Black High
Schools in Duval County,
Florida
Timothy J. Groulx
1
Abstract
Segregated schooling in Florida was initially a concession to gain public acceptance
of free public education. Its effects can be seen in the band programs of many high
school bands. This study looks at the effects of segregation and integration on bands
at black high schools in Jacksonville, Florida (Duval County Public Schools). Much of
the story echoes the history of Tampa’s desegregation, though Duval County’s age,
location, demographics, and politics helped shape a different story.
The story of the bands’ origins highlights some noteworthy directors, including
the distinguished Kernaa D. McFarlin of the Stanton High School band. This study
describes how the Stanton band would shatter prejudices about black schools by
becoming the first black high school band to earn a Superior rating at state in a newly
integrated Florida Bandmasters Association in 1966.
Lawsuits compelled the district to integrate, though traditions and prejudices led
to massive white flight from the public schools which continues today. The black
student population became the majority demographic in 2006, and musical traditions
reflecting those at many Historically Black Colleges and Universities are now the
“tradition” at many formerly all-white high schools.
Keywords
band, instructional area, segregation, integration, black, Florida, Duval, Jacksonville
1
University of North Florida, Jacksonville, FL, USA
Corresponding Author:
Timothy J. Groulx, University of North Florida, 1 UNF Drive, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
Email: Timothy.groulx@unf.edu
720760JHR XX X 10.1177/1536600617720760Journal of Historical Research in Music EducationGroulx
research-article 2017