Darren Rodgers to lead Xavier athletic pep band

NEW ORLEANS — Xavier University of Louisiana Athletics announced Friday the hiring of Darren Rodgers as the director of its pep band, which will make its debut during the 2019-20 academic year.

Rodgers — a New Orleans native and a graduate of Talladega College and NOLA’s St. Augustine High School — is the director of bands at the Roots of Music, a New Orleans-based, non-profit organization which empowers the youth through music education, academic support and mentorship while preserving and promoting the unique musical and cultural heritage of the city.

“We are excited to welcome Darren Rodgers to Xavier University and Team Gold as pep band director,” said Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs/Athletics Director Jason Horn. “Darren is an inspiring educator who possesses a rare combination of expertise and artistry.

“The opportunity to start a pep band and help grow that program into something successful presents unique and exciting possibilities. Darren will put our pep band musicians on the map from day one.”

Rodgers, whose primary instruments are euphonium and trumpet, received a bachelor of arts in music from Talladega. There he was a dean’s list student, a member of the Marching Tornado Band, a student arranger and euphonium section leader. Rodgers also attended Southern University in Baton Rouge, La., where he was a Human Jukebox band member and was chosen outstanding bandsman his freshman year.

The XULA pep band will perform at home sporting events and other campus and community events.

“I’m extremely excited to have this opportunity at Xavier,” Rodgers said. “I look forward to adding energy and creating a fun atmosphere at the university. The most energetic people in the room are in the band. It’s like having another DJ at the game. The energy a good pep band can bring to a game is tremendous. It can amplify the atmosphere.”

XULA Athletics announced March 20 the formation of its pep band, which is open to all interested XULA students. Previous experience in a high school or college band program is preferred. Students interested in joining the pep band may click here to fill out an online questionnaire.