Influences of Segregation and Desegregation on the Bands at Historically Black High Schools of Hillsborough County, Florida

Abstract

Much of the twentieth century was a turbulent time in the United States for African Americans. During this time of segregation on numerous legal and social levels, bands were becoming part of the culture of many schools across the nation. Despite great adversity, many successful band programs were established at black schools as a result of the efforts of pioneering music educators, often as a result of a deep and lasting commitment to the children of their home communities. This study is a narrative history that sheds light on the band programs at the black public high schools of Hillsborough County, Florida. The events that took place here may be similar to developments that occurred elsewhere throughout the country, especially those in the segregated south. This history examines the legacy of Michael “Prof” Rodriguez and other band directors, and the experience of being a student and a band member at schools like Blake High School and Middleton High School. Topics include the origins of these bands at the end of World War II through Brown v. Board of Education, through court-ordered desegregation and school closings, to reestablishing the high schools in a way that would honor their heritage but avoid re-segregation. While desegregation helped some problems related to equality of opportunity, it also created problems by taking away the pride and sense of community that was centered largely in the high schools.