David L. Walters, a native of Youngstown, Ohio, took over as Director of the Jacksonville State Southerners and Marching Ballerinas in 1961. By the time he retired in 1991, membership in the Southerners had swelled to over 300 members, with a devoted alumni following numbering in the thousands.
Dr. Walters' gift for music arrangement and education earned him a reputation as one of the premier band clinicians and adjudicators in the nation, but it was his ability to relate to each of his pupils as individuals that earned him the love and respect of countless JSU students and alumni. Many of these current and former students continue to show their love for Dr. Walters by calling him, simply, "Uncle Dave."
Even in retirement, Dr. Walters continues to work as a musical educator, adjudicating festivals and contests across the Southeast. He also continues to teach private lessons, and his students are consistent All-State calibre performers.
It is in the spirit of this relentless pursuit of the best in music that the Epsilon Nu Chapter is proud to name the Southern Classic Marching Contest Overall Grand Champion Trophy in honor of our cherished friend and fellow Sinfonian, Dr. David L. Walters.
| Past Winners | ||
| Year | School | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1998 | Wheeler HS | Marietta, GA |
| 1997 | Sprayberry HS | Marietta, GA |
| 1996 | Rome HS | Rome, GA |
| 1995 | Lawrence County HS | Moulton, AL |
| 1994 | South Cobb HS | Austell, GA |
| 1993 | Paulding County HS | Dallas, GA |
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