Since its founding in the fall of 1950 by visionary bandleader James W. “Chief” Wilson, the Jones High School Band Program has served as a vehicle for community uplift, impetus for social change, and inspiration for thousands of high school musicians in Orlando, Florida. The Jones High School Band was started at a period in this city’s history when formal support for African-American music programs did not exist. “Chief” Wilson was, in fact, hired as a social studies teacher, but desired to lead a band of student musicians, and pursued that goal by teaching music during his planning period and on weekends. The first instruments played were recycled, the uniforms were hand-stitched by the band parents, and arranging transportation was difficult. In spite of the challenges faced, and refusing to compromise quality for the sake of having a larger band, “Chief” started the band with only a handful of dedicated students. Through his leadership and their commitment to musical excellence, they overcame the prevailing racial attitude of the time and shared their passion for music and dedication to perfection with audiences near and far. 67 years later, the Jones High School Band serves over 100 students of all races, is prominently featured in many local events, and, most recently, has been invited to be a representative of the City of Orlando and State of Florida as a performer on the main stage of Carnegie Hall, New York City!