Mr. Arnold Emmit Quarles, II, “The Maestro” and his music ministry
By DeShawn Mason Ewing and Stephanie Mason White
Edited by Patty Blackburn
The word “maestro” is an honorable title of respect given to teachers of music. Mr. Quarles made music his calling and used this art form to make a difference in so many young lives. Mr. Arnold Emmit Quarles, II is a 1960 Langston University graduate, graduating Magna Cum Laude. He began his teaching career here in Marshall County’s only black high school– Jones High School in 1960. After schools were integrated, he became the chorus and band director at Marshall County High School.
Over his lengthy career of 41 years, Mr. Quarles taught band, chorus, and history. His instruments of choice were the trumpet, Elkhorn and bass guitar. During his tenure as band director, the Marshall County High School band was very large in number. Mr. Quarles knew the value of sparking musical interest early. Thus, he started recruiting potential band students in 6th grade. 7th and 8th grade band students were bused from Connelly Jr. High to MCHS daily to practice. Most students remained in the band until their high school graduation. Students couldn’t wait to move up to 7th grade to join the band.
Under Mr. Quarles’ helm, both high school bands provided lively and spectacular half-time shows. Mr. Quarles carefully choreographed field performances that were something special to see. The band marched onto the field with pride and confidence. The entire band moved with a high step style of march often used by universities. Former band students vividly recall hearing Mr. Quarles say, “Lift those knees high! I need to see the bottom of each shoe and straighten up those lines!”
The band’s musical performances included R&B selections and a wide variety of musical genres. This was appealing to both the crowds and the band students. Former band members noted that they “loved the music.” The band performed with enthusiasm and football fans were fully engaged during their shows. Instrumental practices began with the words: “Band!! Attention!! Hut, Hut, Ready Ho!!.” Throughout practices, Mr. Quarles encouraged band members to learn to play their instruments with precision and perfection. He stressed the need for good effort during practices, so that field performances would reflect their hard work. Mr. Quarles took the time to listen to students playing their instruments and identify areas that needed improvement.
Band competitions and trips were another great memory of former band students–especially trips to the Humboldt Strawberry Festival. These trips provided fun, purposeful activities that helped band students gauge their own skills and learn from others. Mr. Quarles networked with universities and even brought a university band performance to Lewisburg. Stephanie White said, “Seeing the Tennessee State University Aristocratic Band perform here in Lewisburg was just amazing and left a lasting impression.”
Mr. Quarles made the effort to establish positive relationships with both students and their parents. His display of genuine concern kept band students motivated and dedicated to the band’s success. Mr. Quarles provided his band members a trustworthy and safe environment to thrive. For many, the band offered them a place to belong. Mr. Quarles knew that students had different capabilities. With or without the talent to play a musical instrument, Mr. Quarles found a place in his band for any student. Stephanie White said, “Mr. Quarles told me that even though I couldn’t read a musical note, I was still good at twirling a flag pole.” Mr. Quarles also provided opportunities for students to demonstrate their own creativity. Gregory Pigg stated, “One game, Mr. Quarles gave the drumline permission to march solo and form a snake. We stayed on the field too long and it caused the football team to get a penalty.”
Band students saw Mr. Quarles as a guardian, mentor and friend. He conveyed expectations for them as a group–and as individuals. Mr. Quarles’ casual conversations with students emphasized the need for good moral character and integrity. Brenda Hightower said, “We knew that anything Mr. Quarles told us was serious and would prepare us for life.” One former student said, “I speak for scores of former MCHS marching band members—Maestro. Not only were you a teacher, mentor and role model, you were our friend. The band plays on!”
After retirement, Mr. Quarles continued to share his talent with his Greater First Baptist Church family as music director and deacon. Mr. Quarles passed away on August 18, 2022.
