University of North Alabama Hires New Band Director

Dr. Joseph Gray returns to lead the Marching Pride and other UNA bands after predecessor's controversial retirement.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 5:40pm

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A bold, colorful silkscreen-style illustration featuring a repeating pattern of a marching band trumpet, capturing the energy and spirit of the University of North Alabama's renowned music program.The University of North Alabama's iconic Marching Pride band will continue its legacy under new leadership, with the hiring of an acclaimed director known for his innovative approach.Starkville Today

The University of North Alabama has announced the hiring of Dr. Joseph Gray as its new Director of Bands. Gray, who previously served as Associate Director of Bands at UNA from 2019 to 2025, is leaving his position at Mississippi State University to take on the role. He will lead the Marching Pride as well as UNA's concert and jazz bands, building on the legacy established by the program's longtime former director, Lloyd Jones, whose recent retirement was met with controversy.

Why it matters

The University of North Alabama's band program is a source of pride for the school and the local community. The transition to new leadership comes after weeks of speculation and controversy surrounding Jones' departure, which supporters claimed was due to 'unfair working conditions.' Gray's return to UNA is seen as an opportunity to provide stability and continue the excellence of the band program.

The details

Dr. Joseph Gray, who previously served as Associate Director of Bands at UNA from 2019 to 2025, is leaving his position at Mississippi State University to become the new Director of Bands at the University of North Alabama. In his new role, Gray will lead the Marching Pride as well as UNA's concert and jazz bands. Gray has degrees from California State University, Long Beach; University of New Mexico; and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and specializes in trumpet.

  • Dr. Joseph Gray is expected to start in his new role at UNA on May 1, 2026.
  • Lloyd Jones, the former longtime Director of Bands at UNA, announced his retirement in late January 2026.

The players

Dr. Joseph Gray

The new Director of Bands at the University of North Alabama, who previously served as the school's Associate Director of Bands from 2019 to 2025 before leaving for a position at Mississippi State University.

Lloyd Jones

The former longtime Director of Bands at the University of North Alabama, who recently retired after nearly 30 years leading the program.

Edd Jones

The previous longtime Director of Bands at the University of North Alabama, whose position was taken over by his son Lloyd Jones in the fall of 2000.

Dr. Brien Smith

The Provost and Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs at the University of North Alabama, who praised Gray's qualifications and fit for the Director of Bands role.

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What they’re saying

“Joe brings a wealth of knowledge about music as well as the Marching Pride. He is familiar with UNA, the program, and the students, and he has a long history of professional and teaching experience that make him the right fit.”

— Dr. Brien Smith, Provost and Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs, University of North Alabama

“I'm honored to return to the University of North Alabama as Director of Bands. My six years at UNA were the most transformational period of my professional career. Leaving UNA felt like leaving home, so when the opportunity to return came, it was the easiest decision I've ever made. Our family is grateful to be back in Florence, and we are excited to partner with our students, alumni, colleagues, and the community.”

— Dr. Joseph Gray

“Being able to lead the band program at the University of North Alabama for more than two decades has been a truly great honor, and I am deeply proud of what our students have accomplished. These last few weeks have been challenging, and I regret the period of uncertainty experienced by our band community and UNA as a whole.”

— Lloyd Jones, Former Director of Bands, University of North Alabama

What’s next

The University of North Alabama is expected to hold a welcome event for Dr. Joseph Gray when he arrives on campus to begin his new role as Director of Bands on May 1, 2026.

The takeaway

The hiring of Dr. Joseph Gray as the new Director of Bands at the University of North Alabama represents an opportunity to provide stability and continuity to the school's highly regarded music program after a period of uncertainty surrounding the departure of longtime director Lloyd Jones. Gray's familiarity with the university and the Marching Pride band position him well to build on the program's legacy and excellence.