Podcasts · Episode

Quincy Hilliard

Program: NoteWorthy
Aired: Monday, January 26, 2026 listen
Hosted by Loki Karuna

There’s no arguing the musical significance of grand concert halls and symphony auditoriums, but when was the last time you thought about a middle school band room. This is where the path of many musicians began, after all – myself included! Greetings – I’m Loki Karuna, and for this edition of Noteworthy it’s a little music for band, as realized by composer Quincy Hilliard.

Dr. Quincy Hilliard hails from Starkville, MS, where, like many musicians, his music education started in the band room. Inspired by the work of composer Aaron Copland, Quincy created educational materials that continue to serve as a foundation for students beginning their musical journeys. This eventually led him to creating his own works for school band, including this one, called Africata. 

In 2023, Quincy became the recipient of the Eminent Faculty Distinguished Professor Award at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, making him one of the most decorated composers of beginner and intermediate level band music in the US. You may not see his works performed by your local professional orchestra, but his impact on the trajectories of musicians is unquestionable, making him one of today’s most noteworthy composers. 

Noteworthy is a production of WDAV, classical public radio.