Dr. Chester Phillips

A native of Newnan, GA, Chester B. Phillips is in his tenth year as associate director of bands and director of athletic bands at Georgia State University. His primary responsibilities include conducting the Wind Orchestra, establishing and directing the marching band, teaching conducting and overseeing all facets of the athletic bands. In 2013, Dr. Phillips was presented the Dean’s Early Career Award by the College of Arts and Sciences for his outstanding work in teaching, service and professional development. Under his leadership the GSU Panther Band has received several honors and accolades including participation in the 2014 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, marching in the 57th Presidential Inaugural Parade, a national top-ten honor by the 2013 College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA), and a top-five honor by the 2012 & 2016 Southern Division of CBDNA.

As a clinician, Dr. Phillips has presented for organizations including: GMEA (GA), AMEA (AL), Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic (IL), Music For All Summer Symposium (IN), Bands of America Regional Championships (TX and PA), Hawaii International Conference on Arts and Humanities (HI), College Band Directors National Association (NC and MO), and Drum Corps Japan (Yokohama, Japan). Dr. Phillips continues a close affiliation with the Rauman Poikasoittokunta (Youth Band) in Rauma, Finland where he regularly conducts, gives master classes, and designs marching drill.

Prior to his appointment at GSU, Dr. Phillips taught for seven years as the associate director of bands at Harrison High School in Kennesaw, Georgia and for two years in the Gwinnett County public schools at the middle and high school level.

Chester Phillips received the Bachelor of Music degree in music education from the University of Georgia, the Master of Music degree in music education from the University of Illinois and the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in wind conducting at the University of Georgia. His principal conducting teachers have been John P. Lynch and James Keene. He is affiliated with professional organizations that include the National Band Association, College Band Directors National Association, National Association for Music Education, Georgia Music Educators Association, Drum Corps International, and Music for All. Chester lives in Roswell, GA with his wife, Megan, their three children and their dog, Bella.