Sharing his love and passion for music is what inspired Kevin McLellan to be a teacher and make a difference in the lives of others.
“I have always enjoyed playing and making music and I felt as if I needed to share that love and passion that I have for music with students, so I decided to become a teacher,” said Mr. McLellan.
Mr. McLellan is the Director of Bands at Dillon Middle School and Assistant Director of Bands at Dillon High School in Dillon, South Carolina. He is currently in his 19th year of teaching. Returning to Dillon in 2012, Under my leadership, the Dillon Middle School band has received 10 Superior Ratings and 9 Excellent Ratings at regional festivals and the band has been awarded the “Outstanding Performance Award”,8 times in 12 years which is the largest and most prestigious award given by the SC Band Directors Association. Dillon Middle School band has also played at the Carowinds Festival of Music in Charlotte NC and has received a rating of Superior in four straight years. Mr. McLellan has been featured in the SC State newspaper and was presented a Memorabilia Plaque for Outstanding Achievement by Senate Kay Patterson. In 2020-2021 school year Mr. McLellan received teacher of the year at Dillon Middle School. In that same year Kevin McLellan and the band received “Program of Note” from South Band Directors Association Region 5, that recognize the Dillon Middle School Band Program.
Mr. McLellan began his teaching career at J.V. Martin Jr. High School in Dillon, SC as the Director of Bands. He also taught at R.B. Dean Elementary School & Southside Ash-pole Elementary School in the Robeson County school district in NC for two years.
Mr. McLellan is a native of Dillon, South Carolina and attended Dillon High School class of 2001. He graduated with his Bachelor’s Degree in Music (Cum Laude) from Claflin University (’05) earning the Gold Award and highest GPA in music. While at Claflin, Kevin performed with the Jazz Band, the Wind Ensemble, Pep Band, and Gospel Choir. He studied conducting under Mr. Reed and percussion under Dr. Rodney Zimmerman.
In his spare time, Mr. McLellan enjoys being the Minister of Music at Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church in Laurinburg, NC where he has been serving for 20 years. He also is a dedicated musician with the local gospel groups, Totally Committed and Maurice McZeke & MDK and The Spiritual Brothers, these groups have received nation and state recognition.
Mr. McLellan is endorsed by Nord keyboards. Juicy Ears inner monitor, and Diemond Star Drumsticks. Also featured with the American Music and Sound and Hammond Organ World companies. His professional affiliations include: NBA(National Band Association), National Association for Music Educators, Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Incorporated, Prince Hall Masonic Fraternity 33O, Olive Branch Lodge #93 of Rowland, NC, Carpenters Consistory #164 of Valley, NC, Ouda Temple(Shriner) #147 Oasis of Maxton Desert of NC, Naomi Chapter (OES)#133 of Rowland, NC, and York Rite Masonry: Holy Royal Arch Duncan J. Whitted #80, Council of Royal Select King Saul #6 and Knights Templar James L. French Commandery #16. Grand United Order of Odds Fellows of American. United Supreme Council of the 33rd degree.
When asked how he makes a difference in the lives of others, he said, “I inspire others through my daily resilience and strong work ethic that might encourage others to commit to the same growth.”
When asked what he would say to others who want to make an impact in the community, Mr. McLellan said, “I would say change starts with the individual who cares, takes actions, and lead by example. I believe when you give your time, skills, and voice to uplift those around you, you contribute to building a stronger, more connected and more compassionate community.”
