While Allan D. Stephens has been directing the course of the Model Laboratory School Band program for nearly a quarter century, there was that period of time before his arrival in Richmond -- the B.S. (Before Stephens) Years -- where the direction of the band was helmed by someone else.

We know that, up until 1975, the band was directed by Tom Taylor (we aren't exactly sure when he began at Model). Mr. Taylor's most enduring legacy would have to be that, in his last year, he brought new uniforms to the band... the same uniforms that would persist for the next 20 years.

The MHS Band from the 1975 yearbook

Tom Taylor from the 1975 yearbook

Replacing Mr. Taylor in the 1975-1976 school year was Ken Schubert. Mr. Schubert's run as band director is considered by many, including non-band members, to be legendary. Band enrollment shot up. The jazz ensemble was a sight to behold. The marching band gave Madison Central a run for its money (yes, difficult for many as it may be to believe, but back in the 1970s, Model High School had quite a sizable marching band, with majorettes and flags!)

Mr. Schubert's first yearbook photo, from the 1976 yearbook	The MHS Band from the 1976 yearbook
The MHS Band from the 1981 yearbook

However, health reasons caused Mr. Schubert's legendary eight year run to come to an end in the spring of 1982. While many band students may remember Mr. Schubert for his private lessons, instrument repair, or, a few years later, as the band director at Clark-Moores Middle School, a good number of band members from the Allan D. Stephens Era got their initial start under the baton of Mr. Schubert.

Dedication to Mr. Schubert from the 1982 yearbook

All contents copyright © 2006 JLK Productions

The beliefs and opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of JLK Productions, except for those that are.